Preface
Photonic is an area of technology, which is advancing rapidly in the past two decades. To date, photonic has been propelled into its present position as the technology of choice and imparted dramatic impact to many modern industries such as energy, manufacturing, medical, biotechnology, communication, etc. and it is still rapidly expanding to almost every imaginable field.
By definition photonics is a technology of generating and harnessing light and other forms of radiant energy whose quantum unit is the photon. The science includes light emission, transmission, deflection, amplification and detection by optical components and instruments, lasers and other light sources, fibre optics, electro-optical instrumentation, related hardware and electronics, and sophisticated systems. The range of applications of photonic extends from energy generation to detection to communications and information processing.
Another key area that needs attention is the materials research where it forms the building block of components, devices and structures used in many applications, i.e. from electronics, optoelectronics, biotechnology to building materials. Novel and environmentally friendly materials and technology will enable development of new and low cost products of functional material that will lead to the energy saving of existing resources.
The establishment of Centre for Advanced and Sustainable Materials Research (CASMR) is indispensable in order for Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman to be a leader in photonics and advanced materials research and development. This is also inline with the government’s vision, in which photonics as well as advanced materials were identified as one of the enabling technologies for the future. Areas in which the centre would focus on would be to study and develop new materials and technologies associated with Solar Technology, Electronics and Optoelectronics devices and packaging, Optical Networks and Systems, Sensors, Biosensors, Biomaterials, Processing Technology, etc.
Objective
Photonics and Advanced Materials are important areas of technology that require attention. The applications mentioned above are just a small portion of the huge potential that photonics and advanced materials technologies can offer. A lot more research and development, particularly in the area of materials processing, devices and systems, can be initiated to fully realise the potential of both technologies.
Hence, the objective of forming this centre is to be part of an R&D team of multi-discipline that would play an important role in acquiring knowledge and technology for the development of the country, particularly in the area of photonics and advanced materials.
Vision
To be a leading centre of excellence for research and development in the area of photonics and advanced materials technologies.
Mission
To be an innovator of ideas and solution provider through research and development activities and initiatives
To provide researchers with the opportunities and resources to conduct research and development work