Biophotonics is the application of light- and laser-based tools and techniques to biological systems, covering fundamental science, biological sensing and imaging, through to biomedical procedures. Our research groups in this area perform experimentally based research.

The application of light and laser methods enables breakthrough discoveries in biology, health and the clinical sciences, and plays an important role in meeting challenges in the life sciences.

Major strength

Laser science is a strength of Australian physics. Our physicists have long been major players in the field within Australia, particularly in experimental quantum atom optics, laser trapping and hypersonic flow diagnostics.

Our researchers apply strong fundamental physics skills to physics or biology problems over a range of scales, from single molecule interactions through to molecules and cells, and tissues and organs.

We aim to develop world-class facilities that will allow early-career researchers and postgraduate students to reach their potential and make discoveries.

Related research groups

Related research areas and groups include:

    Available projects

    See our Atomic, molecular, biological and optical physics projects

    People

    Academic

    • Professor Warwick Bowen

      Professor
      School of Mathematics and Physics
      Affiliate of ARC COE for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS)
      ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems
    • Dr Itia Favre-Bulle

      ARC DECRA Research Fellow
      Queensland Brain Institute
      ARC DECRA Research Fellow
      School of Mathematics and Physics
    • Associate Professor Jacinda Ginges

      Associate Professor
      School of Mathematics and Physics
      Affiliate of ARC COE for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS)
      ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems
    • Professor Tim McIntyre

      Director of Teaching and Learning & Professor
      School of Mathematics and Physics
    • Dr Timo Nieminen

      Senior Lecturer
      School of Mathematics and Physics
    • Associate Professor Taras Plakhotnik

      Associate Professor
      School of Mathematics and Physics
    • Dr Benjamin Roberts

      UQ Amplify Senior Lecturer
      Physics
    • Professor Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop

      Professor
      School of Mathematics and Physics
      Affiliate of ARC COE for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS)
      ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems
    • Dr Alexander Stilgoe

      Research Fellow
      School of Mathematics and Physics
      Affiliate of ARC COE for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS)
      ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems

    Adjunct and honorary