Debye Annual Lecture by Dr. P. James Schuck (Columbia University)

Abstract: 

This talk focuses on the development of photon avalanching (PA) in various upconverting nanoparticle systems. 
Extraordinary properties and applications have already been demonstrated in these materials, with progress accelerated by combining recent advances in lanthanide-based nanomaterials synthesis, the modeling of optical properties and energy transfer, and new characterization methods. 
Here, I highlight the recent demonstration of piconewton to micronewton force sensing with these next-generation nanocrystals as well as their use in applications spanning superresolution imaging, photoswitching, and optical patterning and memory. 
I will then finish with a discussion of recent studies on variability, bistability, and the potential to harness internal variations for the power of good.

Program