"In the past few years, impressive advances in optical microscopy have overcome the fundamental diffraction-limited barrier. Notwithstanding, many complex phenomena of industrial and biological relevance evolve not only in space but also in the time domain. However, an overlooked aspect in previous microscopy modalities relates to the temporal resolution.

The goal of this project is to develop a novel optical microscope using frequency comb lasers that features spatial phase-sensitivity and achieves unprecedented (sub-microsecond) frame rates. This instrument adapts technologies from the realm of optical communications in order to achieve ultrafast shutter speeds and continuous (memory-limited) operation. The characteristics of this tool are suitable for imaging dynamic and non-repetitive phenomena with high statistical accuracy. We will approach this goal by leveraging the state-of-the-art laboratory facilities at the fiber-optic communications group of Prof. Peter Andrekson (where the candidate performs his main research activities). In the later stage of the project, we will establish a collaborative effort with the group of Prof. Aldo Jesorka (also at Chalmers University of Technology) to merge our microscope with microfluidics technology and explore its suitability for applications in single-cell imaging. This project opens up a new research avenue in optical imaging that benefits from recent advances in the field of ultrafast coherent optical communications.

In addition, this project will also serve to consolidate the leadership of the applicant in the field of ultrafast photonics, and capitalize his expertise in high-repetition-rate electro-optic frequency comb technology and optical fiber communications acquired during his postdoctoral stages at McGill University, Canada, and Purdue University, USA."