Research groups

QPN work at the interface of condensed matter, aka solid-state physics, and quantum optics. The group develops and characterises semiconductor and superconductor quantum materials, fabricates devices, and integrates them into advanced systems.

Partnering with industry, the group develops new glass materials and fibre structures, advancing innovations in sensing, non-linear optics, lasers, mid-infrared technologies, and other photonics applications.

Conducts transdisciplinary research using novel optical imaging to visualise biological, environmental, and health processes, driving multidisciplinary research with innovative, translatable applications across science, medicine, and technology.

The Precision Measurement Group (PMG) aims to build instruments that can make measurements with world-class precision and accuracy. This includes portable atomic clocks, photonics integrated circuits, microresonators and more.

PELL provides world-leading expertise in "Novel Fluorescence" for real-time, non-contact material identification, and offers advanced radiation sensing, geochronology, and luminescence dosimetry capabilities.

World-leader in the development of the imaging needle and multimodal micro-endoscopy technology for biomedical use. The team designs and builds miniaturised imaging probes for diagnostics, safer surgery, and assessing food quality.

Investigating terahertz‐radiation applications for non-invasive sensing, imaging, and communications, targeting use in security, healthcare diagnostics, industrial sensing, and high-frequency wireless systems.

A world leading fabrication hub within the Australian National Fabrication Facility, offering custom optical glass and fibre development, advanced machining, and surface functionalisation services to researchers and industry partners.

The team works on experimental laser physics, photonic sensors, and ultrafast laser fabrication. Current research areas include advanced fibre and waveguide lasers, photonic manufacturing techniques, and advanced remote sensors for defence and mining sectors.

Integrates tens to hundreds of optical components onto a single semiconductor chip, enabling compact precision measurement systems for portable atomic clocks, environmental monitoring, and next-generation satellite and drone platforms.

Pioneering antibiotic-free infection control through innovative light sources and Cold Plasma Technology, generating plasma-activated water that neutralises harmful microorganisms with transformative potential for wound care, food safety, and clinical settings.

Applies mass spectrometry approaches, including proteomics and ion mobility techniques, to investigate biomacromolecule structure and interactions, advancing understanding of disease-relevant molecular systems and enabling new diagnostic and therapeutic discoveries.

Investigates visual processing in flying insects from behavioural, physiological and computational perspectives, translating discoveries about dragonfly target-detecting neurons into neurally inspired algorithms for autonomous tracking platforms.

Designs biocompatible fluorescent chemosensors integrated with optical fibres and nanoparticles for real-time disease monitoring, while developing small-molecule inhibitors targeting key proteins and peptides involved in human disease.

Conducts research at the intersection of condensed matter physics and quantum optics, developing and characterising quantum materials and integrating them into devices for sensing, communications and nanophotonics.

Adelaide University hosts a unique concentration of internationally recognised researchers across the full laser technology stack. The Laser Capability Hub (LCH) formalises this strength into a nationally visible capability, supporting defence, industry, and health priorities.