Photonics

Introduction:

Can you imagine about such light that can store information and help to transfer these information through very thin glass fibers that can carry the equal of 300,000,000 simultaneous telephone calls? All these come under Photonics, the technology of light energy. Photonics is a hi-tech subject that evolved as a result of the fusion of optical technology with electronics. It is the use of light to obtain, convey or process information. It is the science of mastering the techniques involved in the emission, detection, transmission and modulation of light. This sub-discipline of physics deals with the study of photons, the elementary particle of light. In Photonic system, information signals are conveyed as pulses of light and these optical signals are transmitted through optical fibres. Optical fibres are strands of special glass around 10 micron (100µm) in diameter (i.e about the thickness of a human hair) which can carry thousands of times more information than electrical wires. Photonic devices that are used to convert electrical signals into optical signal and back again where necessary, can be made up from a variety of materials including semi conductors and even optical fibres. 

Nature of Work:

In Photonic system, information signals are conveyed as pulses of light and these optical signals are transmitted through optical fibres. Optical fibres are strands of special glass around 10 micron (100µm) in diameter (i.e about the thickness of a human hair) which can carry thousands of times more information than electrical wires. Photonic devices that are used to convert electrical signals into optical signal and back again where necessary, can be made up from a variety of materials including semi conductors and even optical fibres. 

Personality:         

Those who wish to pursue a career in Photonics must have a fascination for science and related topics. They should have an eye for detail and a curiosity for solving science-centered questions. One should be good in physics and mathematics. Creativity is also needed in this field, as they have to design equipments and communicating skill, to be a part of the manufacturing team

Professional Courses:

The International School of Photonics, CUSAT is offering different courses in Photonics including three semesters MTech course, MPhil course and also PhD program. They are also offering 5 year integrated MSc in Photonics.

Duration:

1 year to 5 years

Eligibility:

Those who have passed plus two in the science stream (Physics, Chemistry and Maths) with a minimum mark of 50% are eligible for graduation courses in Photonics and Optoelectronics. There are some diploma courses also that would help one to become a Photonics technician. Two-year technician programme help one to become a photonics technician.

Career Prospects /Companies:

A Photonics specialist can work as Engineers, technicians or technologists, research officers in government and industry laboratories and as professional officers in Universities and Government offices. There is much scope for graduates in the field as Photonics industry is in need of more qualified and experienced people. Mostly they could work for telecommunication companies. They could also find key positions in a variety of other industries and R & D organizations involved in the area of networks, semiconductor technology, fiber and integrated optics, optoelectronics and software.                                                

Remuneration:

This is one of the highly paid fields among the science-oriented careers. Remuneration varies on the basis of experience and education. One can earn 20000- 35000 Rs per month at the beginning of his career.

In countries like US, Canada and UK the annual pay-package of Photonics researchers/ scientists varies from $36384 to $116915.

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