Since 1991, I have taught courses ranging from 100 levels to 400 levels. The courses I taught recently include Introductory to Quantum Mechanics (Physics 308), Newtonian Mechanics (Physics 211), Laboratory Physics I (Physics 231), Classical and Modern Optics (Physics 373), and introductory physics laboratory (lab of Physics 107 and 108).
My research interests are laser physics, photorefractive optical devices, and nonlinear dynamics in optical systems. My research was
focused on gas lasers and devices including photorefractive crystals till 2003. Since 2004, I have been studying a novel semiconductor laser: the vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL). The VCSEL is a good candidate in many applications, e. g., optical data communications, highly integrated optics, and laser arrays. In applications, a small portion of the output beam may be reflected at the end of optical fiber or the surface of optical elements and re-enter the laser. This reflection is termed as optical feedback. Because the VCSEL is sensitive to optical feedback, it is interesting and useful to investigate effects of optical feedback on the VCSEL. My students and I have found that the spectral linewidth of the VCSEL can be significantly reduced by optical feedback. Under appropriate conditions, we can achieve single-mode operation when the solitary laser operates at multiple transverse modes.
Many students have participated in my research. They often continue their summer research for their senior theses. Most of them presented
their results at regional or national professional meetings and became coauthors of my publications. My research is currently supported by the National Science Foundation.
When I am not busy at Bates or teaching Chinese to my children, Albert and Lily, I enjoy reading mystery novels and Chinese poetry.
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