Objective
The ERC Advanced grant ‘TOSCA’ (grant number: 247375) focussed on the development of terahertz (THz) frequency science and technology, and in particular, investigated the electronic and photonic engineering of THz quantum cascade lasers (QCLs), and the underlying physics of these sophisticated devices.
This Proof of Concept grant (THEMIS) builds on this pioneering research, and in particular on our breakthrough developments in QCL self-mixing imaging. We will increase the technology readiness level of the patented optical-bench-based THz QCL systems developed under ‘TOSCA’, and develop a demonstrator suitable for translation of this technology to industrial end-users. The focus is on delivering a compact, inexpensive, THz frequency imaging system, which exploits self-mixing technology to deliver amplitude- and phase-resolved images whilst dispensing with an external detector.
Specific objectives are to: construct a compact and robust optical-breadboard-based self-mixing system; demonstrate the technology outside the laboratory environment, both in the field with commercial end-users, and at conferences/workshops/trade shows; and, evaluate opportunities for THz self-mixing imaging, identifying end-user applications.
To achieve this, we will engineer our current optical-bench-based technology onto a robust and compact optical breadboard with a cryogen-free cooler, and develop integrated ‘plug-and-play’ electronics and software for image reconstruction. The complete system will be suitable for transport to commercial partners, allowing demonstration and evaluation of the technology. Furthermore, we will incorporate a near-field microscopy capability, enabling sub-micron THz imaging – more than 100 times smaller than the THz free-space wavelength.
By the end of the programme, we will have identified an exploitation path by liaising directly with THz instrument manufacturers and with at least one targeted end-user
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- social sciences media and communications graphic design
- natural sciences physical sciences electromagnetism and electronics optoelectronics
- natural sciences physical sciences quantum physics quantum optics
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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H2020-EU.1.1. - EXCELLENT SCIENCE - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
ERC-POC - Proof of Concept Grant
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2016-PoC
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
LS2 9JT Leeds
United Kingdom
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.