Dr. Viktoriia Babicheva - Optical Sciences

Optical nanostructures can exhibit exceptional ability to control light, be used to achieve super-resolution imaging and an anomalously large photonic density of states. As a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Arizona, I work in the field of nano-optics and nanophotonics. In my career, I have acquired an experience in nanofabrication, optical characterization, and numerical modeling. I have studied switchable materials with low optical losses and using these materials, designed and fabricated nanophotonic waveguides with subwavelength mode confinement and long-range propagation. Recently, I developed a method to model and interpret experimental data obtained from near-field optical microscope using a scattering-type scanning of layered materials with resonant and non-resonant properties.
College of Optical Sciences provides unique opportunities for optics and photonics research spanning from fundamental optical physics to optical engineering, photonics, and image science with cutting-edge applications of optics in real systems. Building up on my expertise, I plan to lead a research program focusing on efficient light control and dynamic tuning that can be achieved using resonant nanostructures. Specific research interest lies in the development of hybrid metal-semiconductor designs with an emphasis on layered transition metal dichalcogenides, graphene, hexagonal boron nitride, their heterostructures, and other van der Waals materials. Exploring optical properties of novel materials with the aim to identify anisotropy, losses, etc., and furthermore, the utilization of these materials presents the possibility for photonic applications, including detectors, amplifiers, and heat transfers. The results will be paramount for the development of practical mid-infrared and terahertz ultra-compact devices for sensing and imaging.
Diversity is the key to innovation, growth, and success; teaching, and mentoring diverse groups is an important task. Despite efforts taken to increase diversity in science and related fields, many women and minorities still choose not to pursue these careers. I constantly seek to be involved in activities aimed at recruiting and supporting women and minorities through their study and work. I am actively involved in the initiatives taken by Women in Optics student club at the University of Arizona. We bring together female students, encourage development, and help them through their careers. It serves as a forum for women in the optical sciences community to communicate and exchange ideas, and we participate in outreach to teach optics and raise awareness of career opportunities.