Using matter to control light and light to control matter

Modern optical physics comprises the myriad ways that matter and light interact. The interaction is mutual in that matter affects light and light affects matter. I will describe two research programs that illustrate some of the basic ways that light and matter interact. In the first program illustrating matter affecting light, we are using new solution-based techniques to fabricate optical elements. We have recently made multi-layer dielectric optical elements including wavelength dependent mirrors and a Fabry-Perot microcavity. In the second program illustrating light affecting matter, we trap particles using a strongly focused laser beam in an optical tweezers trap. We are working to enhance the optical force using particles with optical resonance behavior as a means toward trapping nanometer-sized particles. We are also working on a variety of collaborative experiments in physics, chemistry, and biology where the position control of optical tweezers is beneficial.