Nanophotonics: Controlling Light in Small Spaces

Explore the fascinating world of nanophotonics through this physics colloquium talk that delves into the challenges and applications of confining electromagnetic radiation to sub-diffraction limit volumes. Learn why manipulating light at nanoscale matters through three key aspects: enhancing light-matter interactions, controlling light propagation by modifying Snell's Law, and converting electromagnetic energy into other forms like chemical bonds or acoustic surface waves. Drawing from years of research experience, discover how nanophotonics influences various scientific and technological domains where precise light control is crucial, illustrated through multiple real-world examples from the presenter's research group.