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Watt's Up College of Optical Sciences News for October 18, 2007
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Thursday -- Optical Sciences Colloquium -- 3:30 p.m. -- Meinel 307
Robert Greenler, Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, will present Seeing With the Mind as Well as the Eye. Abstract: In this presentation I will attempt to describe a way of looking at the world - a way of seeing beyond the immediate observation. Since what we perceive is strongly influenced by what we already know, the examples I will present will be quite personal. However, they illustrate a way of looking at nature that I believe can be very important for a scientist, and can, in addition, enhance our pleasure in walking through the world.
Dr. Robert Greenler is Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee where he has been a faculty member since 1962. He has been instrumental in the development of the Laboratory for Surface Studies at Milwaukee, an internationally recognized interdisciplinary laboratory that has been the focus for much of his research effort.
He is the organizer of The Science Bag, a series of public science programs in Milwaukee that has had over 160,000 attenders since it was started in 1973. He has been the producer of a series of 30 videotape versions of selected Science Bag programs that are sold over the country for classroom use.
Another area of his interest concerns the study of optical effects of the sky. His book, Rainbows, Halos, and Glories, was published by Cambridge University Press in 1980 and has been reprinted in paperback edition by Peanut Butter Publishing. This interest in optical sky phenomena has taken him on three field trips to the U.S. Antarctic Research Station located at the South Pole.
Professor Greenler served at the president of the Optical Society of America in 1987. In 1988 he received the Millikan Lecture Award of the American Association of Physics Teachers for the 'creative teaching of Physics" and in 1993, the first Esther Hoffman Beller Award to be awarded by the Optical Society of America for "...extraordinary leadership in advancing the public appreciation and understanding of science...".
In 2002, his name was placed on a bronze plaque at the Spaights Plaza on the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee as an individual "...who has made significant, enduring, and campus-wide contributions to the growth and development of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee."
His latest book, Chasing the Rainbow: Recurrences in the Life of a Scientist, was published in 2000 by Elton Wolf.
Dr. Greenler lives in Madison, Wisconsin.
October 18, 2007 -- ACMS Seminar -- 2:00 p.m. -- Meinel 547
Arvinder Sandhu, Assistant Professor of Physics at UA, will present Nonlinear EUV Photonics and its Applications in Attosecond Science. Jerome Moloney is the host.
October 19, 2007 -- Special Presentation -- 1:30 p.m. -- Meinel 821
Dr. Marc P. Georges, Head of Laser Techniques Activity at Centre Spatial de Liège, Université de Liège, will present Applications with Inorganic Photorefractive: Marketed Systems and Future Potentialities. Pierre-Alexandre Blanche is the host. Abstract: In his talk, Dr. Georges will introduce some applications using inorganic photorefractive materials that present potentialities in various fields. He will focus particularly on recent works that gave birth to commercial systems and those that were granted "Best applications of photorefractive materials" in OSA sponsored or co-sponsored Topical Meetings on Photorefractive Effects, Materials and Devices. Some examples are: Holographic laser mode filtering for telecoms. Dynamic hologram recording: laser ultrasound non-destructive testing. Holographic interferometry for metrology and non-destructive testing. Dr. Georges will discuss the figures of merit of recording materials and try to initiate a debate for new application potentialities related to new photorefractive or photosensitive materials.
Save the Date
Saturday, October 27 for the OSC Fall Picnic at Ft. Lowell Park
He'd Rather Be Sailing
He has been a faculty member in Optical Sciences for more than 35 years and has guided the Academic Programs Office for 15 years. During his tenure, the academic unit expanded its recruitment initiatives, nearly doubled the number of classes available to students, earned ABET accreditation for the undergraduate degree, and started the College's distance learning program.
Although Rick's plans for the future include plenty of travel, he plans to still be around OSC to help the new associate dean get started and perhaps teach a course or two in the future.
A search a new Associate Dean for Academic Programs is underway. Position announcements are posted on the OSC and UA Web sites as well as with OSA and SPIE.
And Speaking of Travel
Rolf said, "The conference is one of the premier conferences dedicated to fundamental aspects of semiconductor physics, an area of research that is presently dominated by European research institutions. At the conference in Italy, only 2 out of 13 invited speakers represented United States research institutions.
"My talk presented recent results on a microscopic theory of photoluminescence from semiconductors and its application to optical refrigeration of semiconductors. The theory, developed together with Nai Kwong and Greg Rupper -- all 3 of us are from OSC -- allows one to deduce and understand complex many-particle processes from observable luminescence spectra over a wide range of temperatures, from the few-Kelvin regime to above room temperature."
Organize your Citations with RefWorks Online Citation Management Tool
From Maliaca Oxnam, UA Optics Librarian and former OSC Librarian. Do you dread writing your bibliography more than you do writing your paper? Do you have trouble keeping track of your references and sources for your dissertation? Do you find citation styles a pain?
If you answered "yes," to any of these questions, RefWorks is for you! RefWorks is a citation organization and management tool that the UA Libraries provides to you for free. It allows you to gather and organize your article and book citations for a variety of projects. RefWorks helps you manage links to full-text of articles, share references within a collaborative group, add citations to your paper while you are writing and will assist you in creating a bibliography to your specified citation style!
The library is offering two walk-in workshops this fall to introduce you to the basics of RefWorks. The workshops will be held in the Main Library, Information Commons Computer Classroom. A112. Sessions will be held on:
Tuesday, October 23, 10:00 to 11:30 AM and Thursday, November 8, 12:30 to 2:00 PM
No reservations needed -- Just show up! For more information about RefWorks, contact Optics Librarian, Maliaca Oxnam (oxnamm@u.library.arizona.edu, 621-6386).
Happy Birthday and Best Wishes for a Wonderful Year
On Campus
October 19, 2007 -- Physics Colloquium -- 2:30 p.m. -- PAS 224
October 22, 2007 -- Biomedical Engineering Seminar -- 2:00 p.m. -- Keating 103
Other Optics Employment
Please check out additional
opportunities at
Faculty Positions in Experimental/Observational Astrophysics. University of California, San Diego. The Department of Physics (http://physics.ucsd.edu) at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) invites applications for two junior level faculty positions in experimental (including particle astrophysics) or observational astrophysics (any wavelength), staring July 1, 2008. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, or related subjects and an outstanding record of research accomplishment. Applicants should have ability and strong interest in undergraduate and graduate instruction. The appointee is expected to establish a research program and to participate in the educational programs and other activities of the Department. Astrophysical research at UCSD centers around observational cosmology, star formation, high energy (X-ray and Gamma-Ray) astrophysics, neutrino astrophysics, and solar wind observations. Faculty members have access to the two Keck 10 m telescopes and the Lick 3 m telescope. An application consisting of a curriculum vitae, list of publications, summary of research interests, and a future research plan, should be sent by mail only (no emails will be considered) to: Faculty Search Committee – Astrophysics, Department of Physics AST-OS, MC-0354, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0354. Candidates should also arrange to have three letters of reference sent under separate cover. Salary per UCSD pay scales. Applicants are welcome to include in their cover letters a personal statement summarizing their contributions to diversity. Review of applications will begin on December 3, 2007 and continue until the position is filled. UCSD is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer with a strong institutional commitment to excellence through diversity.
Operations Staff Astronomer - Adaptive Optics. ESO Science Operations Department of the La Silla Paranal Observatory. (Career Path V) Purpose and scope of the position: Paranal Operations Staff Astronomers contribute to the challenge of operating the world leading astronomical facility so as to optimize its scientific output. They have the opportunity to acquire expert knowledge of novel instrumentation, and may be given the overall responsibility for an instrument. Flexibility exists so as to tailor duties and responsibilities as a function of personal expertise and interests. Duties and responsibilities: The successful candidate will support observing operations in both visitor and service mode at the La Silla Paranal Observatory, with duty station on Paranal, including short-term scheduling of observations, calibration of the instruments, and the assessment of the scientific quality of the astronomical data. As Adaptive Optics Specialist, the successful candidate will also be integrated in the teams operating the seven AO instruments currently on the mountain, i.e. NaCo (general Shack-Hartmann-based spectro-imager with polarimetric and coronographic capabilities), SINFONI (AO integral field spectrograph), CRIRES (AO-fed high-resolution spectrograph), and the MACAO units (curvature sensing units feeding the VLT interferometer). S/he will also participate at the early stages of Laser Guide Star assisted AO, and at the challenge of putting this new system into smooth operations. MAD, the multiconjugated adaptive optics prototype, is being tested on Paranal, constituting a unique opportunity to take part in the next generation instrument development. Depending on skills and experience, s/he will be responsible for some of the systems, for the definition, implementation, optimization and characterization of new observing modes, the set-up of optimized calibration plans and integration of these systems with the automatic data reduction pipelines. Operations Astronomers may be members of the ESO Science Faculty, with an appointment at the level of Assistant or Associate Astronomer. They will be expected and encouraged to actively conduct astronomical research. A total of 105 nights per year are spent at the observatory carrying out functional duties, usually in a shift of 8 days on Paranal, 6 days off. The rest of the time is spent in the Santiago office. Depending on qualification, expertise, and personal interest, Operations Astronomers may alternatively be offered an appointment with up to 20% of the time for personal research and 135 nights per year to be spent on the observatory. Financial support for scientific trips and stays at other institutions, including in Europe, is foreseen for all Paranal Operations Astronomers. Professional requirements and qualifications: Ph.D. in Astronomy, Physics or equivalent. We are seeking a staff astronomer with substantial observing experience (at least three years). The ideal candidate will be an active researcher and have excellent observation-oriented research records, will be familiar with instrumental, data analysis, archiving and/or observational techniques, and must be conversant with at least one major data reduction package such as MIDAS, IRAF or IDL. Of special value for this position would be a record of experience in Adaptive Optics, either at the level of instrumentation, data processing, calibration, or interaction with Laser Guide Star, or a strong motivation to learn these techniques. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to identify technical issues and potential risks and demonstrated experience with real-time troubleshooting. Very good self-organization and time management, coupled with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks are a must. Very good communication and interpersonal skill are required, with the ability to adapt and to work efficiently in a multi-cultural environment, both independently and in a team. A good command of the English language and a strong sense of team spirit are essential. A working knowledge of Spanish or a willingness to learn it would be advantageous. Duty station: Paranal and Santiago, Chile. Starting date: As soon as possible. Contract: The initial contract is for a period of three years with the possibility of a fixed-term extension or permanence in accordance with ESO’s contract policy requirements and provisions. Promotions will be based on scientific as well as functional achievements. Remuneration: We offer an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary (tax-free), comprehensive pension scheme, medical, educational and other social benefits as well as professional training opportunities and financial support in relocating your family. Either the title or the grade may be subject to change according to education and the number of years of experience. Application: If you are interested in working in areas of frontline technology and in a stimulating international environment, please visit http://www.eso.org for further details. All applicants should apply on-line at https://jobs.eso.org/ Applications must be completed in English. Closing date for applications is 16 December 2007. The position requires three letters of reference to be sent to vacancy@eso.org. Should you have any questions related to the content of this vacancy notice please contact vacancy@eso.org Although recruitment preference will be given to nationals of ESO Member States (members are: Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the Czech Republic and United Kingdom) no nationality is in principle excluded. The post is equally open to suitably qualified male and female applicants.
Optical Engineer. JPL. Job Description: As a member of the Interferometry and Advanced Optical Systems, you will perform component tests, assist integration and testing of interferometer prototypes. Will perform work including laser and fiber optics system setup, alignment, and design, environmental test of developed hardware, optical component selection and procurement, and lab report writing. Requirements BS/MS/PhD in optical sciences or optical engineering. Ability to perform optical experiments and optical system analysis. Familiar with lasers, fiber optics, and optical devices. Coursework in optics, nonlinear optics and photonics. Ability to learn new programming languages and environments. Mastery of at least one programming language for lab instrument control. Able to work in a team environment with good communication skills to peers. Familiarity with standard optical design tools, i.e. Code V highly desirable, but not required. Jet Propulsion Laboratory, 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, California 91109. www.jpl.nasa.gov If you are interested in applying, please email your resume to cmartinez@optics.arizona.edu U.S. Citizenship required.
Opto-Mechanical Engineer. JPL. Job Description: As an Opto-Mechanical Engineer, you will provide engineering support to senior engineers in the design and development of space and surface opto-mechanical assemblies in support of NASA flight missions. Will be a member of a team comprised of mechanical designers, analysts and technicians to configure, design, build, test and deliver interfaces for the SIM project. Requirements: BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering or Optical Sciences. Familiarity with optomechanical design (optic mounts, optical benches, critical alignments, positioners, etc.). Familiarity with and keen interest to understand and solve optomechanical design problems, perform trade studies, develop design requirements, establish and implement mechanical interface agreements, perform detailed piece-part design and analysis, coordinate fabrication assembly and qualification of spaceflight hardware. Must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills. Working knowledge of control systems and familiarity with a high-end CAD package with stress and thermal analysis tools as applicable to opto-mechanical design desired, but not required. Jet Propulsion Laboratory, 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, California 91109. www.jpl.nasa.gov If you are interested in applying, please email your resume to cmartinez@optics.arizona.edu U.S. Citizenship required.
Post-Doctoral Position. Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada. The Canada Research Chair in Advanced Photonic Components is seeking post-doctoral candidates for a two-year project related to the development of a novel fiber laser source. The research project involves optimization of a multi-frequency fiber laser design and fabrication process. The candidate should have expertise in fiber optics including mode analysis, fiber laser modeling and fiber Bragg grating design. Strong experimental skills in fiber laser technology and fiber Bragg grating writing is also required. The candidate should demonstrate leadership and good communication skills. The research project will involve interactions with other University partners and possible stays at these institutions. Starting date is January 1st , 2008 (or before). Contact : Prof. Jacques Albert, jacques_albert@carleton.ca
Senior Optical Engineer. Pacific Bioscience. Job Description: An exceptional career opportunity for an experienced and highly motivated optical engineer to join a start-up in the area of bio-technology. Pacific Biosciences is seeking the best for developing optical instrumentation that will revolutionize DNA sequencing. The Optical Design Engineer will work with the engineering and scientist teams to define, design and develop complex illumination and imaging systems. The individual must be self starter with excellent engineering and organizational skills. Potential Responsibilities: Define, design and implement complex illumination and imaging optical systems used for fluorescence detection. Employ advanced analytical skills to enable modeling and tolerance analysis. Work with opto-mechanical engineers to prototype breadboard systems for experimental verification of design concepts. Work on projects from concept development stage and bring them to completion at the product delivery stage. Work with suppliers to design, build and test various optics as per the specifications, such as lenses. Work in multi-discipline engineering and scientific teams. Position Requirements: Education: PhD degree in Physics, Optics or equivalent, or MS with 4 years minimum experience as an optical designer, or BS with 8 years minimum experience. Broad knowledge of optics should be demonstrated in some of the following areas: optical imaging system design, laser-based illumination design, laser beam shaping, aspheric optics, diffractive optics, spectroscopy and micro-lens arrays. Lens design or experience in detailed lens specifications requirements is a plus. Knowledge of optical test practices and processes. Experience in handling precision optics and alignment of optical systems. Fluent in utilizing common commercial optical ray-tracing software (Zemax, OSLO, or equivalent) for design and tolerance analysis. Good analytical and problem solving skills. Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills a must. Demonstrated experience in working within a multi-disciplinary team in a fast paced, technically challenging environment. Technical leadership. Relevant product development and / or industry experience required. For immediate consideration, please submit your resume at: www.pacificbiosciences.com |
From
Jennifer Kuhlman, Sales Administrator, Breault Software
Applicatiions. Breault Research Organization (BRO)
is pleased to offer College of Optical Sciences students free
tuition to the November 12-16, 2007, Introduction to ASAP
course, on a space available basis. The Introduction to ASAP
course is a 5-day training taught by BRO's senior optical
engineers, who are experts in their fields and skilled in the
art of teaching. For more information or to reserve your space,
please contact Jennifer Kuhlman at 
Veeco
cordially invites you to attend a free Metrology Seminar and
Workshop at UA's College of Optical Sciences. There is
no fee to attend, but seating is limited. Registration
is available online at