The group studies the physics of the interaction of light with matter and the effects of high-power lasers on a variety of materials. We apply our understanding of the underlying mechanisms to solve problems related to scientific, industrial, and medical applications of lasers.
The Laser Group at the University of Hull has a long history and was founded circa 1968 not long after the birth of the laser itself. At that time, the emphasis was on the development of the laser as a source with a great many firsts achieved including the world record for the generation of the shortest laser wavelength. Laser manufacturing companies spun out of these activities and so began a sustained relationship with industrial partners. The activities of the group shifted to encompass laser applications whereby the applied physics expertise of the academics was focussed on understanding the interaction of light with materials.