Graduate Program

Fall Term Schedule

Fall 2024

Number	Title	Instructor	Time
OPT 401-1 HOME First Laboratory Jennifer Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This laboratory is for HOME students only, and is the first of three, in-person sections necessary for the MS HOME program. This lab includes individual training [bootcamp] on the use of an oscilloscope, spectrum analyzer, laser power meters, aligning a laser, aligning a spatial filter, splicing an optical fiber, and aligning an optical assembly. An online, laser safety training course is also required. The course will end with a 12-hour laboratory, and written formal laboratory report. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 402-1 HOME Second Laboratory Jennifer Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This laboratory is the second of three, in-person sections necessary for the MS HOME program. This lab includes a 12- and 6-hour lab, and a formal 20 minute presentation. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 410-01 Introduction to Augmented and Virtual Reality Mujdat Cetin MW 2:00PM - 3:15PM
This course provides a broad introduction to augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) systems. The course involves lectures covering an overview of all aspects of the AR/VR domain, as well as individual work performed by each student aimed at providing more intensive training on various aspects of AR/VR. Topics covered in the lectures and class workshops include history, conceptual origins, and design/evaluation principles of AR/VR technologies; optics/platforms/sensors/displays; auditory perception and spatial audio; graphics and computation; data processing and machine intelligence for AR/VR; introduction to AR/VR programming tools; societal implications and ethical aspects. At the end of the course, students will have gained familiarity with the techniques, languages, and cultures of fields integral to the convergent research theme of AR/VR. This course is co-instructed by Daniel Nikolov, Mujdat Cetin, Zhiyao Duan, Chenliang Xu, and Yuhao Zhu, and it includes additional guest lectures and workshops. Location Goergen Hall Room 109 (MW 2:00PM - 3:15PM)
OPT 411-1 Math Methods of Optics & Phy William Renninger TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM
Advanced techniques utilizing vector calculus, series expansions, contour integration, integral transforms (Fourier, Laplace and Hilbert) asymptotic estimates, and second order differential equations. Location Goergen Hall Room 108 (TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM)
OPT 411-2 Math Methods for Optics-Rec William Renninger F 11:05AM - 12:20PM
Advanced techniques utilizing vector calculus, series expansions, contour integration, integral transforms (Fourier, Laplace and Hilbert) asymptotic estimates, and second order differential equations. Location Wilmot Room 116 (F 11:05AM - 12:20PM)
OPT 413-01 Intro to Random Processes Gonzalo Mateos Buckstein MW 4:50PM - 6:05PM
The goal of this course is to learn how to model, analyze and simulate stochastic systems, found at the core of a number of disciplines in engineering, for example communication systems, stock options pricing and machine learning. This course is divided into five thematic blocks: Introduction, Probability review, Markov chains, Continuous-time Markov chains, and Gaussian, Markov and stationary random processes. Prerequisites: ECE 242 or equivalent Location Gavett Hall Room 202 (MW 4:50PM - 6:05PM)
OPT 425-1 Radiation & Detectors Gary Wicks TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM
The course covers the following topics: emission of thermal radiation, modeling of optical propagation (radiometry), quantifying the human perception of brightness (photometry) and of color (colorimetry), fundamentals of noise in detection systems, parameters for specifying the performance of optical detectors, and a survey of several specific types of lasers.References: Boyd, Radiometry and the Detection of Optical Radiation; Kingston, Detection of Optical and Infrared Radiation. Location Wilmot Room 116 (TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM)
OPT 426-1 Liquid Crystal Materials 1 Kenneth Marshall W 12:30PM - 1:45PM
Two credits. Part one of two Liquid Crystal Materials courses, this part discusses structure, properties and applications. Part two available in spring semester. Location Hylan Building Room 307 (W 12:30PM - 1:45PM)
OPT 430-99 Mechanics for Optical Engineers Jonathan Ellis TR 6:15PM - 7:30PM
This course focuses on establishing a foundation for optical engineers to interface with mechanical engineers as part of the optical system design process. Students will learn the basics of CAD using SolidWorks to perform simple design tasks such as making lens barrels simple mounted components. Students will then learn basic optical and metal fabrication techniques, including the manner in which standard components are manufactured. After, students will focus on standard mechanical tolerancing and the difference with optical tolerancing to understand the limitations between the two. Included in this discussion are aspects of GD&T and resources for understanding different datums and mechanical drawing features. Lastly, students will learn basic concepts from mechanics, including free-body diagrams, kinematic constraints, stress, strain, and combined stress. Location Online Room 10 (ASE) (TR 6:15PM - 7:30PM)
OPT 440-01 Freeform Optics Jannick Rolland-Thompson R 11:05AM - 12:20PM
In the same way that the ability to generate and manipulate electrons leads to electronic devices, the ability to generate and manipulate photons leads to optics & photonics devices – the technology of the 21st century. Freeform optics is an emerging optics & photonics technology. The course will first reveal the history of freeform optics. We will next mathematically define freeform optics. Then, building on prior knowledge of optical aberration theory for rotationally symmetric systems, we will introduce Nodal Aberration Theory (NAT) – the aberration theory of asymmetric systems, where originally, asymmetry due to misalignment was considered, but in this course, we will look at asymmetry due to freeform surfaces. With this foundation on the aberration theory of freeform systems, learning about freeform optics includes learning about designing freeform optical systems with the intention to successfully build them, fabricating them, testing them, and completing the full assembly and system-level test The goal of this class is for students to learn how to design freeform optical systems that can be built. Location (R 11:05AM - 12:20PM)
OPT 441-1 Geometrical Optics Dale Buralli MW 12:30PM - 1:45PM
This course is designed to give the student a basic working knowledge of image-forming optical systems. The course is oriented towards problem solving. Material covered includes: image formation, raytracing and first-order properties of systems; magnification, F/number, and numerical aperture; stops and pupils, telecentricity vignetting; telescopes, microscopes, magnifiers, and projection systems; the Delano diagram; the eye and visual systems, field lenses; optical glasses, the chromatic aberrations, and their correction; derivation of the monochromatic wavefront aberrations and study of their effects upon the image; third order properties of systems of thin lenses; effects of stop position and lens bending; aplanatic, image centered, and pupil centered surfaces; and field flatteners.References: Smith, Modern Optical Engineering, McGraw-Hill; Lecture notes. Location Wilmot Room 116 (MW 12:30PM - 1:45PM)
OPT 443-1 Foundations of Modern Optical Systems Georg Nadorff TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM
This course covers fundamental ray optics that are necessary to understand todays simple to advanced optical systems. Included will be paraxial optics, first-order optical system design, illumination, optical glasses, chromatic effects, and an introduction to aberrations.References: Hecht, Optics (4th edition); Smith, Modern Optical Engineering; Lecture notes. Location Online Room 1 (ASE) (TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM)
OPT 446-1 Optical Interference Coating Jennifer Kruschwitz TR 3:25PM - 4:40PM
This course addresses the design, manufacture and quality control of optical interference coatings. Topics covered include: reflection and transmission at an interface; the vector diagram; the Smith Chart; properties of periodic media; design of high reflectors, bandpass filters and edge filter; use of computer programs for design analysis; production techniques; thickness monitoring; and thickness uniformity calculations. Location Goergen Hall Room 109 (TR 3:25PM - 4:40PM)
OPT 449-1 Introduction to Illumination Joshua Cobb TR 4:50PM - 7:30PM
This course is intended as an overview to the design and analysis of illumination systems along with an introduction to the use of Light Tools software. The classes alternate between lectures on an illumination topic, which includes many examples, and a working lab learning skills in Light Tools. The Lecture/Labs would be complimentary so that the skills developed in using the software reinforce the topics covered in the Lectures. Location Harkness Room 114 (TR 4:50PM - 7:30PM)
OPT 453-1 Quantum & Nano Opt Lab (Advanced) Svetlana Lukishova W 8:00AM - 9:15AM
NOTE: the schedule for this course will be set by the instructor after polling ALL registered students for availability (One 1 hour per week lectures and ONE 1.5 hours per week lab) This ADVANCED laboratory course is based both on quantum information and new advances in nanotechnology. As much as wireless communication has impacted daily life already, the abstract theory of quantum mechanics promises solutions to a series of problems with similar impact on the twenty-first century. Students will experimentally learn cutting-edge photon counting instrumentation and methods with applications ranging from quantum information to nanotechnology, biotechnology and medicine. Major lab topics include quantum entanglement and Bells inequalities, single-photon interference, single-emitter confocal fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy, photonic bandgap materials, Hanbury Brown and Twiss interferometer/photon antibunching. Photonic based quantum computing and quantum cryptography will be outlined in the course materials as possible applications of these concepts and tools. Other important quantum and nano-optics experiments and methods [for instance, Hong-Ou-Mandel interferometer and its applications as well as super-resolution optical fluorescent microscopies (nanoscopy)] will be discussed on the lectures. ALL students assignments are individual. For grading students should submit an essay, deliver a 20-mins talk about all labs with submission of their PowerPoint slides, 3 lab reports, maintain their lab journals and pass through MidTerm and Final (Big) Quizzes. Location Wilmot Room 504 (W 8:00AM - 9:15AM)
OPT 456-1 Optics Laboratory Greg Schmidt MW 2:00PM - 5:00PM
This is an intensive laboratory course with experiments that likely included the following: 1. Transverse and axial mode structure of a gas laser.2. Detector calibration using a blackbody.3. Production of a white light viewable transmission hologram.4. Acousto-optic modulation.5. Twyman-Green interferometry.6. Optical Fibers Laser.7. The Pockels cell as an optical modulator.8. Optical beats (heterodyning) and CATV.9. The YAG laser and second harmonic generation.10. Fourier optics and optical filtering.11. Lens Evaluation.12. Modulation Transfer Function.13. Applications and properties of pulsed dye laser.14. Holographic optical elements.15. Properties of Gaussian beams. Location Wilmot Room 504 (MW 2:00PM - 5:00PM)
OPT 461-1 Fourier Optics James Fienup MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM
The principles of physical optics including diffraction and propagation based on Fourier transform theory; integral formulation of electromagnetic propagation; diffraction from apertures and scattering objects; applications to optics of Fourier transform theory, sampling expansions, impulse response, propagation through optical systems, imaging and transforming, optical transfer function, optical filtering; and selected topics of current research interest. Text: Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics, 4th Ed.; class notes Location Wilmot Room 116 (MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM)
OPT 461-2 Fourier Optics - Rec – F 12:30PM - 1:45PM
The principles of physical optics including diffraction and propagation based on Fourier transform theory; integral formulation of electromagnetic propagation; diffraction from apertures and scattering objects; applications to optics of Fourier transform theory, sampling expansions, impulse response, propagation through optical systems, imaging and transforming, optical transfer function, optical filtering; and selected topics of current research interest. Text: Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics, 4th Ed.; class notes Location Wilmot Room 116 (F 12:30PM - 1:45PM)
OPT 463-1 Wave Optics & Imaging Jennifer Kruschwitz TR 8:00AM - 9:30AM
This course provides the practicing optical engineer with the basic concepts of interference, diffraction, and imaging. Each topic will be reinforced with real-world examples. The interference section will include interferometry, Fabry-Perot etalons, and multilayer thin films. The diffraction and imaging sections will include, but are not limited to, diffractive optics, continuous and discrete Fourier transforms, convolution theory, and Linear Systems.References: Hecht, Optics (4th edition); Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics; Lecture notes. Location Wilmot Room 116 (TR 8:00AM - 9:30AM)
OPT 464-1 Nanophotonic Devices Qiang Lin TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM
This course aims to provide students with the understanding of fundamental principles governing optical and mechanical phenomena at micro/nanoscopic scale, with focus on current research advances on device level. The following topics will be covered: Fundamental concepts of micro-/nanoscopic optical cavities and mechanical resonators; various types of typical nanophotonic and nanomechanical structures; fabrication techniques; theoretical modeling methods and tools; typical experimental configurations; physics and application of optomechanical, quantum optical, and nonlinear optical phenomena at mesoscopic scale; state-of-the-art devices and current research advances. References: primarily based on recent literature Location Gavett Hall Room 312 (TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM)
OPT 467-1 Nonlinear Optics Robert Boyd T 2:00PM - 4:40PM
Fundamentals and applications of optical systems based on the nonlinear interaction of light with matter. Topics to be treated include mechanisms of optical nonlinearity, second-harmonic and sum- and difference-frequency generation, photonics and optical logic, optical self-action effects including self-focusing and optical soliton formation, optical phase conjugation, stimulated Brillouin and stimulated Raman scattering, and selection criteria of nonlinear optical materials.References: Robert W. Boyd, Nonlinear Optics, Second Edition. Location Lechase Room 160 (T 2:00PM - 4:40PM)
OPT 469-1 Introduction to Modeling in Photonics Pablo Postigo Resa TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM
This course provides up-to-date introduction to computer modeling in photonics. Topics covered include the basics of finite difference time domain (FDTD) and finite domain (FD) simulation for photonics. Special emphasis will be given to modeling in the micro and nanoscales. Location Goergen Hall Room 509 (TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM)
OPT 470-1 Gradient-index (GRIN) Optical Lens Systems Duncan Moore TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM
The main portion of this course will be the design of lenses with axial, radial, spherical and freeform GRIN materials (both monochromatic and polychromatic). Both visible and infrared systems will be analyzed. The methods of the measurements of the optical properties of GRIN materials will be presented. Techniques for manufacturing GRIN materials will be discussed. This class will also describe the equivalence of GRIN optics to other areas of physics e.g. sound waves in the water, ocean waves, gravitational waves, and others. Prerequisites: Code V experience, OPT 444 or permission of the instructor Location Goergen Hall Room 417 (TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM)
OPT 473-01 Laser Engineering ; Leon Waxer MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM
This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of lasers, laser performance, and applications. Topics include the physics of laser operation, laser cavities, laser types and applications, performance metrics, polarization optics in lasers, and laser amplifiers. Location (MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM)
OPT 479-1 THz Phenomena and Technology Xi-Cheng Zhang F 9:00AM - 11:40AM
Terahertz (THz) technology and applications provides the fundamentals of free-space THz photonics for sensing, imaging and spectroscopy applications. A free-space THz-ray optoelectronic system, with diffraction-limited spatial resolution, femtosecond temporal resolution, DC-THz spectral bandwidth, and mV/cm field sensitivity, will be central to the course. We will cover the basic concepts of generation, detection and propagation of T-rays, and their applications. Students will learn most advanced THz technology. Modern methods include THz time-domain spectroscopy, optical rectification, electro-optic sampling, THz gas laser, Gunn diodes and Schottky diodes, and FTIR. Many newly developed THz systems at Rochester will be the examples used in this course. Ultrafast THz Phenomena session also covers the methods for optical measurement with short laser pulses. Short laser pulse generation, amplification, detection, and characterization will be discussed. Location Goergen Hall Room 417 (F 9:00AM - 11:40AM)
OPT 486-01 Innovation: IP Strategy Norris Sankey R 4:50PM - 7:30PM
In this course, the student will learn the basic frameworks and tools for developing an IP strategy for an early stage technology company that is operating in extremely uncertain and dynamic marketplaces. Early stage technology companies usually have products that are sold into new and emerging markets. Understanding the landscape of competing technologies, who owns them, and how to build an effective offensive and defensive strategy to deal with them is key to success. Location Goergen Hall Room 509 (R 4:50PM - 7:30PM)
OPT 486-99 Innovation: IP Strategy Norris Sankey R 4:50PM - 7:30PM
In this course, the student will learn the basic frameworks and tools for developing an IP strategy for an early stage technology company that is operating in extremely uncertain and dynamic marketplaces. Early stage technology companies usually have products that are sold into new and emerging markets. Understanding the landscape of competing technologies, who owns them, and how to build an effective offensive and defensive strategy to deal with them is key to success. Location Online Room 1 (ASE) (R 4:50PM - 7:30PM)
OPT 491-02 Master's Reading in Polarization Thomas Brown 7:00PM - 7:00PM
Individual, specialized reading courses for master’s students; topics, relevant to student’s program, chosen in consultation with faculty member. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-1 Master's Research in Optics Govind Agrawal 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-10 Master's Research in Optics Jennifer Hunter 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-11 Master's Research in Optics Wayne Knox 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-12 Master's Research in Optics Todd Krauss 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-13 Master's Research in Optics Greg Schmidt 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-14 Master's Research in Optics Qiang Lin 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-15 Master's Research in Optics John Marciante 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-16 Master's Research in Optics Duncan Moore 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-17 Master's Research in Optics William Renninger 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-18 Master's Research in Optics Jannick Rolland-Thompson 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-19 Master's Research in Optics Nick Vamivakas 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-2 Master's Research in Optics Julie Bentley 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-20 Master's Research in Optics Gary Wicks 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-21 Master's Research in Optics David Williams 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-22 Master's Research in Optics Brian Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-23 Master's Research in Optics Xi-Cheng Zhang 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-24 Master's Research in Optics Jake Bromage 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-25 Master's Research in Optics Jennifer Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-3 Master's Research in Optics – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-4 Master's Research in Optics Robert Boyd 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-5 Master's Research in Optics Thomas Brown 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-6 Master's Research in Optics Jaime Cardenas 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-7 Master's Research in Optics P Scott Carney 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-8 Master's Research in Optics Susana Marcos 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 495-9 Master's Research in Optics Chunlei Guo 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 503-1 Practicum in Augmented and Virtual Reality Mujdat Cetin; Kathleen DeFazio TR 9:40AM - 10:55AM
This is the third course offered as part of the PhD training program on augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). The goal of the course is to provide interdisciplinary collaborative project experience in AR/VR. The course involves small teams of students from multiple departments working together on semester-long projects on AR/VR with the guidance of one or more faculty involved in the PhD training program. The expected end products of this Practicum course are tangible artifacts that represent what the students have learned, discovered, or invented. Types of artifacts include research papers; patent applications; open-source software; as well as online tutorials and videos for undergraduates, K-12 students, or the general public. ECE 410-1 or OPT 410-1 or BME 410-1 or BCSC 570-1 or NSCI 415-1 or CSC 413-1 or CVSC 534-1 Instructors: Mujdat Cetin, Zhen Bai, Jannick Rolland, Michele Rucci Location Computer Studies Room 426 (TR 9:40AM - 10:55AM)
OPT 544-1 Advanced Lens Design Julie Bentley MW 2:00PM - 3:15PM
Complex zoom lenses and multi-mirror reflective systems are discussed detail starting with first principles. Other topics include materials for other wavelength bands, tolerancing, sensitivity analysis, monte carlo analysis, ghost and stray light analysis. Students required to complete two complex group design projects. Location Wilmot Room 116 (MW 2:00PM - 3:15PM)
OPT 544-2 Advanced Lens Design Recitation Julie Bentley F 2:00PM - 3:15PM
Complex zoom lenses and multi-mirror reflective systems are discussed detail starting with first principles. Other topics include materials for other wavelength bands, tolerancing, sensitivity analysis, monte carlo analysis, ghost and stray light analysis. Students required to complete two complex group design projects. Location Wilmot Room 116 (F 2:00PM - 3:15PM)
OPT 546-01 Thin Film Coatings for Optical Systems Jennifer Kruschwitz M 3:25PM - 4:40PM
This 2-credit course will be run parallel to OPT 544 – Advanced Lens Design. Students will specify, design, and determine feasibility for all of the thin film optical coatings necessary for the project chosen by students in OPT 544. Students will interview various coating manufacturers to ascertain coating processes that are compatible with the OPT 544 project and what nuances have to occur for the design plan to be successful. Prerequisites: OPT 446, OPT 447, and working knowledge of OptiLayer. Permission from Instructor Required. Location Online Room 1 (ASE) (M 3:25PM - 4:40PM)
OPT 551-1 Intro to Quantum Optics Joseph Eberly TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM
An introduction to quantum and semiclassical radiation theory with special emphasis on resonant and near-resonant interactions between atoms and optical fields. Topics covered include field quantization, Weisskopf-Wigner and Jaynes-Cummings models, the optical Bloch equations, resonant pulse propagation, homogeneous and inhomogeneous broadening, adiabatic and non-adiabatic transitions, and dressed states. Location Bausch & Lomb Room 269 (TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM)
OPT 591-01 PhD Reading Course in Polarization Thomas Brown 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-01 PhD Research in Optics Govind Agrawal 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-02 PhD Research in Optics Miguel Alonso 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-03 PhD Research in Optics Julie Bentley 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-04 PhD Research in Optics James Fienup 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-05 PhD Research in Optics Robert Boyd 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-06 PhD Research in Optics Thomas Brown 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-07 PhD Research in Optics Jaime Cardenas 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-08 PhD Research in Optics P Scott Carney 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-09 PhD Research in Optics Michele Cotrufo 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-10 PhD Research in Optics Chunlei Guo 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-11 PhD Research in Optics Andrea Pickel 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-12 PhD Research in Optics Wayne Knox 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-13 PhD Research in Optics Todd Krauss 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-14 PhD Research in Optics Andrew Berger 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-15 PhD Research in Optics Qiang Lin 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-16 PhD Research in Optics John Marciante 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-17 PhD Research in Optics Susana Marcos 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-18 PhD Research in Optics William Renninger 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-19 PhD Research in Optics Jannick Rolland-Thompson 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-20 PhD Research in Optics Nick Vamivakas 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-21 PhD Research in Optics Gary Wicks 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-22 PhD Research in Optics David Williams 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-23 PhD Research in Optics Ben Miller 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-24 PhD Research in Optics Xi-Cheng Zhang 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-25 PhD Research in Optics Kevin Parker 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-26 PhD Research in Optics Jake Bromage 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-27 PhD Research in Optics Michele Rucci 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-28 PhD Research in Optics Jim Zavislan; P Scott Carney (On Leave) 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-29 PhD Research in Optics Pablo Postigo Resa 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-30 PhD Research in Optics Brian Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-31 PhD Research in Optics Pengfei Huo 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-32 PhD Research in Optics – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-33 PhD Research in Optics Greg Schmidt 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595-34 PhD Research in Optics Michael Giacomelli 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595A-1 PhD Research in Absentia Julie Bentley 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595A-2 PhD Research in Absentia – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595A-3 PhD Research in Absentia Geunyoung Yoon 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595B-1 PhD Rsrch in Absentia Abroad Miguel Alonso 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595B-2 PhD Rsrch in Absentia Abroad Jannick Rolland-Thompson 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 595B-3 PhD Rsrch in Absentia Abroad Julie Bentley 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 596-1 Optics Colloquium Michele Cotrufo M 3:25PM - 4:40PM
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OPT 894-1 Co-Op Program in Optics – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 894-2 Co-Op Program in Optics Govind Agrawal 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 895-1 Cont of Master's Enrollment – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 897-01 Master's Dissertation Govind Agrawal 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 899-01 Master's Dissertation Govind Agrawal 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 986V-1 Full Time Visiting Student – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 987V-1 Part Time Visiting Student – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 995-1 Cont of Doctoral Enrollment – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 997-1 Doctoral Disseration Chunlei Guo 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 999-01 Doctoral Dissertation Gary Wicks 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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OPT 999A-2 Doctoral Dissertation in Absentia Julie Bentley 7:00PM - 7:00PM
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Number	Title	Instructor	Time
Monday
OPT 546-01 Thin Film Coatings for Optical Systems Jennifer Kruschwitz
This 2-credit course will be run parallel to OPT 544 – Advanced Lens Design. Students will specify, design, and determine feasibility for all of the thin film optical coatings necessary for the project chosen by students in OPT 544. Students will interview various coating manufacturers to ascertain coating processes that are compatible with the OPT 544 project and what nuances have to occur for the design plan to be successful. Prerequisites: OPT 446, OPT 447, and working knowledge of OptiLayer. Permission from Instructor Required.
OPT 596-1 Optics Colloquium Michele Cotrufo
Blank Description
Monday and Wednesday
OPT 461-1 Fourier Optics James Fienup
The principles of physical optics including diffraction and propagation based on Fourier transform theory; integral formulation of electromagnetic propagation; diffraction from apertures and scattering objects; applications to optics of Fourier transform theory, sampling expansions, impulse response, propagation through optical systems, imaging and transforming, optical transfer function, optical filtering; and selected topics of current research interest. Text: Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics, 4th Ed.; class notes
OPT 473-01 Laser Engineering ; Leon Waxer
This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of lasers, laser performance, and applications. Topics include the physics of laser operation, laser cavities, laser types and applications, performance metrics, polarization optics in lasers, and laser amplifiers.
OPT 441-1 Geometrical Optics Dale Buralli
This course is designed to give the student a basic working knowledge of image-forming optical systems. The course is oriented towards problem solving. Material covered includes: image formation, raytracing and first-order properties of systems; magnification, F/number, and numerical aperture; stops and pupils, telecentricity vignetting; telescopes, microscopes, magnifiers, and projection systems; the Delano diagram; the eye and visual systems, field lenses; optical glasses, the chromatic aberrations, and their correction; derivation of the monochromatic wavefront aberrations and study of their effects upon the image; third order properties of systems of thin lenses; effects of stop position and lens bending; aplanatic, image centered, and pupil centered surfaces; and field flatteners.References: Smith, Modern Optical Engineering, McGraw-Hill; Lecture notes.
OPT 410-01 Introduction to Augmented and Virtual Reality Mujdat Cetin
This course provides a broad introduction to augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) systems. The course involves lectures covering an overview of all aspects of the AR/VR domain, as well as individual work performed by each student aimed at providing more intensive training on various aspects of AR/VR. Topics covered in the lectures and class workshops include history, conceptual origins, and design/evaluation principles of AR/VR technologies; optics/platforms/sensors/displays; auditory perception and spatial audio; graphics and computation; data processing and machine intelligence for AR/VR; introduction to AR/VR programming tools; societal implications and ethical aspects. At the end of the course, students will have gained familiarity with the techniques, languages, and cultures of fields integral to the convergent research theme of AR/VR. This course is co-instructed by Daniel Nikolov, Mujdat Cetin, Zhiyao Duan, Chenliang Xu, and Yuhao Zhu, and it includes additional guest lectures and workshops.
OPT 456-1 Optics Laboratory Greg Schmidt
This is an intensive laboratory course with experiments that likely included the following: 1. Transverse and axial mode structure of a gas laser.2. Detector calibration using a blackbody.3. Production of a white light viewable transmission hologram.4. Acousto-optic modulation.5. Twyman-Green interferometry.6. Optical Fibers Laser.7. The Pockels cell as an optical modulator.8. Optical beats (heterodyning) and CATV.9. The YAG laser and second harmonic generation.10. Fourier optics and optical filtering.11. Lens Evaluation.12. Modulation Transfer Function.13. Applications and properties of pulsed dye laser.14. Holographic optical elements.15. Properties of Gaussian beams.
OPT 544-1 Advanced Lens Design Julie Bentley
Complex zoom lenses and multi-mirror reflective systems are discussed detail starting with first principles. Other topics include materials for other wavelength bands, tolerancing, sensitivity analysis, monte carlo analysis, ghost and stray light analysis. Students required to complete two complex group design projects.
OPT 413-01 Intro to Random Processes Gonzalo Mateos Buckstein
The goal of this course is to learn how to model, analyze and simulate stochastic systems, found at the core of a number of disciplines in engineering, for example communication systems, stock options pricing and machine learning. This course is divided into five thematic blocks: Introduction, Probability review, Markov chains, Continuous-time Markov chains, and Gaussian, Markov and stationary random processes. Prerequisites: ECE 242 or equivalent
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Tuesday
OPT 467-1 Nonlinear Optics Robert Boyd
Fundamentals and applications of optical systems based on the nonlinear interaction of light with matter. Topics to be treated include mechanisms of optical nonlinearity, second-harmonic and sum- and difference-frequency generation, photonics and optical logic, optical self-action effects including self-focusing and optical soliton formation, optical phase conjugation, stimulated Brillouin and stimulated Raman scattering, and selection criteria of nonlinear optical materials.References: Robert W. Boyd, Nonlinear Optics, Second Edition.
Tuesday and Thursday
OPT 463-1 Wave Optics & Imaging Jennifer Kruschwitz
This course provides the practicing optical engineer with the basic concepts of interference, diffraction, and imaging. Each topic will be reinforced with real-world examples. The interference section will include interferometry, Fabry-Perot etalons, and multilayer thin films. The diffraction and imaging sections will include, but are not limited to, diffractive optics, continuous and discrete Fourier transforms, convolution theory, and Linear Systems.References: Hecht, Optics (4th edition); Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics; Lecture notes.
OPT 503-1 Practicum in Augmented and Virtual Reality Mujdat Cetin; Kathleen DeFazio
This is the third course offered as part of the PhD training program on augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). The goal of the course is to provide interdisciplinary collaborative project experience in AR/VR. The course involves small teams of students from multiple departments working together on semester-long projects on AR/VR with the guidance of one or more faculty involved in the PhD training program. The expected end products of this Practicum course are tangible artifacts that represent what the students have learned, discovered, or invented. Types of artifacts include research papers; patent applications; open-source software; as well as online tutorials and videos for undergraduates, K-12 students, or the general public. ECE 410-1 or OPT 410-1 or BME 410-1 or BCSC 570-1 or NSCI 415-1 or CSC 413-1 or CVSC 534-1 Instructors: Mujdat Cetin, Zhen Bai, Jannick Rolland, Michele Rucci
OPT 411-1 Math Methods of Optics & Phy William Renninger
Advanced techniques utilizing vector calculus, series expansions, contour integration, integral transforms (Fourier, Laplace and Hilbert) asymptotic estimates, and second order differential equations.
OPT 464-1 Nanophotonic Devices Qiang Lin
This course aims to provide students with the understanding of fundamental principles governing optical and mechanical phenomena at micro/nanoscopic scale, with focus on current research advances on device level. The following topics will be covered: Fundamental concepts of micro-/nanoscopic optical cavities and mechanical resonators; various types of typical nanophotonic and nanomechanical structures; fabrication techniques; theoretical modeling methods and tools; typical experimental configurations; physics and application of optomechanical, quantum optical, and nonlinear optical phenomena at mesoscopic scale; state-of-the-art devices and current research advances. References: primarily based on recent literature
OPT 425-1 Radiation & Detectors Gary Wicks
The course covers the following topics: emission of thermal radiation, modeling of optical propagation (radiometry), quantifying the human perception of brightness (photometry) and of color (colorimetry), fundamentals of noise in detection systems, parameters for specifying the performance of optical detectors, and a survey of several specific types of lasers.References: Boyd, Radiometry and the Detection of Optical Radiation; Kingston, Detection of Optical and Infrared Radiation.
OPT 469-1 Introduction to Modeling in Photonics Pablo Postigo Resa
This course provides up-to-date introduction to computer modeling in photonics. Topics covered include the basics of finite difference time domain (FDTD) and finite domain (FD) simulation for photonics. Special emphasis will be given to modeling in the micro and nanoscales.
OPT 443-1 Foundations of Modern Optical Systems Georg Nadorff
This course covers fundamental ray optics that are necessary to understand todays simple to advanced optical systems. Included will be paraxial optics, first-order optical system design, illumination, optical glasses, chromatic effects, and an introduction to aberrations.References: Hecht, Optics (4th edition); Smith, Modern Optical Engineering; Lecture notes.
OPT 470-1 Gradient-index (GRIN) Optical Lens Systems Duncan Moore
The main portion of this course will be the design of lenses with axial, radial, spherical and freeform GRIN materials (both monochromatic and polychromatic). Both visible and infrared systems will be analyzed. The methods of the measurements of the optical properties of GRIN materials will be presented. Techniques for manufacturing GRIN materials will be discussed. This class will also describe the equivalence of GRIN optics to other areas of physics e.g. sound waves in the water, ocean waves, gravitational waves, and others. Prerequisites: Code V experience, OPT 444 or permission of the instructor
OPT 551-1 Intro to Quantum Optics Joseph Eberly
An introduction to quantum and semiclassical radiation theory with special emphasis on resonant and near-resonant interactions between atoms and optical fields. Topics covered include field quantization, Weisskopf-Wigner and Jaynes-Cummings models, the optical Bloch equations, resonant pulse propagation, homogeneous and inhomogeneous broadening, adiabatic and non-adiabatic transitions, and dressed states.
OPT 446-1 Optical Interference Coating Jennifer Kruschwitz
This course addresses the design, manufacture and quality control of optical interference coatings. Topics covered include: reflection and transmission at an interface; the vector diagram; the Smith Chart; properties of periodic media; design of high reflectors, bandpass filters and edge filter; use of computer programs for design analysis; production techniques; thickness monitoring; and thickness uniformity calculations.
OPT 449-1 Introduction to Illumination Joshua Cobb
This course is intended as an overview to the design and analysis of illumination systems along with an introduction to the use of Light Tools software. The classes alternate between lectures on an illumination topic, which includes many examples, and a working lab learning skills in Light Tools. The Lecture/Labs would be complimentary so that the skills developed in using the software reinforce the topics covered in the Lectures.
OPT 430-99 Mechanics for Optical Engineers Jonathan Ellis
This course focuses on establishing a foundation for optical engineers to interface with mechanical engineers as part of the optical system design process. Students will learn the basics of CAD using SolidWorks to perform simple design tasks such as making lens barrels simple mounted components. Students will then learn basic optical and metal fabrication techniques, including the manner in which standard components are manufactured. After, students will focus on standard mechanical tolerancing and the difference with optical tolerancing to understand the limitations between the two. Included in this discussion are aspects of GD&T and resources for understanding different datums and mechanical drawing features. Lastly, students will learn basic concepts from mechanics, including free-body diagrams, kinematic constraints, stress, strain, and combined stress.
Wednesday
OPT 453-1 Quantum & Nano Opt Lab (Advanced) Svetlana Lukishova
NOTE: the schedule for this course will be set by the instructor after polling ALL registered students for availability (One 1 hour per week lectures and ONE 1.5 hours per week lab) This ADVANCED laboratory course is based both on quantum information and new advances in nanotechnology. As much as wireless communication has impacted daily life already, the abstract theory of quantum mechanics promises solutions to a series of problems with similar impact on the twenty-first century. Students will experimentally learn cutting-edge photon counting instrumentation and methods with applications ranging from quantum information to nanotechnology, biotechnology and medicine. Major lab topics include quantum entanglement and Bells inequalities, single-photon interference, single-emitter confocal fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy, photonic bandgap materials, Hanbury Brown and Twiss interferometer/photon antibunching. Photonic based quantum computing and quantum cryptography will be outlined in the course materials as possible applications of these concepts and tools. Other important quantum and nano-optics experiments and methods [for instance, Hong-Ou-Mandel interferometer and its applications as well as super-resolution optical fluorescent microscopies (nanoscopy)] will be discussed on the lectures. ALL students assignments are individual. For grading students should submit an essay, deliver a 20-mins talk about all labs with submission of their PowerPoint slides, 3 lab reports, maintain their lab journals and pass through MidTerm and Final (Big) Quizzes.
OPT 426-1 Liquid Crystal Materials 1 Kenneth Marshall
Two credits. Part one of two Liquid Crystal Materials courses, this part discusses structure, properties and applications. Part two available in spring semester.
Wednesday and Friday
Thursday
OPT 440-01 Freeform Optics Jannick Rolland-Thompson
In the same way that the ability to generate and manipulate electrons leads to electronic devices, the ability to generate and manipulate photons leads to optics & photonics devices – the technology of the 21st century. Freeform optics is an emerging optics & photonics technology. The course will first reveal the history of freeform optics. We will next mathematically define freeform optics. Then, building on prior knowledge of optical aberration theory for rotationally symmetric systems, we will introduce Nodal Aberration Theory (NAT) – the aberration theory of asymmetric systems, where originally, asymmetry due to misalignment was considered, but in this course, we will look at asymmetry due to freeform surfaces. With this foundation on the aberration theory of freeform systems, learning about freeform optics includes learning about designing freeform optical systems with the intention to successfully build them, fabricating them, testing them, and completing the full assembly and system-level test The goal of this class is for students to learn how to design freeform optical systems that can be built.
OPT 486-01 Innovation: IP Strategy Norris Sankey
In this course, the student will learn the basic frameworks and tools for developing an IP strategy for an early stage technology company that is operating in extremely uncertain and dynamic marketplaces. Early stage technology companies usually have products that are sold into new and emerging markets. Understanding the landscape of competing technologies, who owns them, and how to build an effective offensive and defensive strategy to deal with them is key to success.
OPT 486-99 Innovation: IP Strategy Norris Sankey
In this course, the student will learn the basic frameworks and tools for developing an IP strategy for an early stage technology company that is operating in extremely uncertain and dynamic marketplaces. Early stage technology companies usually have products that are sold into new and emerging markets. Understanding the landscape of competing technologies, who owns them, and how to build an effective offensive and defensive strategy to deal with them is key to success.
Friday
OPT 479-1 THz Phenomena and Technology Xi-Cheng Zhang
Terahertz (THz) technology and applications provides the fundamentals of free-space THz photonics for sensing, imaging and spectroscopy applications. A free-space THz-ray optoelectronic system, with diffraction-limited spatial resolution, femtosecond temporal resolution, DC-THz spectral bandwidth, and mV/cm field sensitivity, will be central to the course. We will cover the basic concepts of generation, detection and propagation of T-rays, and their applications. Students will learn most advanced THz technology. Modern methods include THz time-domain spectroscopy, optical rectification, electro-optic sampling, THz gas laser, Gunn diodes and Schottky diodes, and FTIR. Many newly developed THz systems at Rochester will be the examples used in this course. Ultrafast THz Phenomena session also covers the methods for optical measurement with short laser pulses. Short laser pulse generation, amplification, detection, and characterization will be discussed.
OPT 411-2 Math Methods for Optics-Rec William Renninger
Advanced techniques utilizing vector calculus, series expansions, contour integration, integral transforms (Fourier, Laplace and Hilbert) asymptotic estimates, and second order differential equations.
OPT 461-2 Fourier Optics - Rec –
The principles of physical optics including diffraction and propagation based on Fourier transform theory; integral formulation of electromagnetic propagation; diffraction from apertures and scattering objects; applications to optics of Fourier transform theory, sampling expansions, impulse response, propagation through optical systems, imaging and transforming, optical transfer function, optical filtering; and selected topics of current research interest. Text: Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics, 4th Ed.; class notes
OPT 544-2 Advanced Lens Design Recitation Julie Bentley
Complex zoom lenses and multi-mirror reflective systems are discussed detail starting with first principles. Other topics include materials for other wavelength bands, tolerancing, sensitivity analysis, monte carlo analysis, ghost and stray light analysis. Students required to complete two complex group design projects.