Photonics Technology (Photonics) is a research group formally established under the auspices of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) on 26 July 2023. The group was founded with the primary objective of advancing the field of photonics by conducting rigorous scientific inquiry, fostering technological innovation, and encouraging multidisciplinary collaboration. The group's core research areas encompass a broad spectrum of photonic technologies, with particular emphasis on optical sensing and instrumentation, optical imaging and microscopy, spectroscopy, optical signal processing, photonic devices and integration, nonlinear and quantum optics, and innovative photonic systems. Our research spans the continuum from fundamental science to translational research, ultimately leading to the development of innovative technologies and practical applications. The formation of this research group originated from the establishment of the Photonics Technology Laboratory, housed within the Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, UKM. Previously led by Prof. Dr. Sahbudin Shaari, the laboratory is now led by Prof. Ir. Dr. Norhana Arsad, who continues to uphold and expand its strong legacy in photonics research. As it transitions into its next phase of growth, the Photonics Technology research group is driven by several esteemed members who serve as the foundation and intellectual pillars of the group. Their collective expertise, dedication, and leadership are instrumental in driving the group's research excellence and elevating its stature at both the national and international levels. By leveraging diverse specializations and advanced research infrastructure, Photonics is committed to producing impactful, high-quality research that addresses both theoretical and practical challenges. The group aspires to be a leading contributor to the global photonics community, championing scientific advancement and technological innovation for the betterment of society.
Research activities within Photonics are organized around several strategic themes, reflecting the group’s commitment to tackling complex scientific challenges and real-world demands through innovation in photonic technologies. These themes include Plasmonics and Interferometry, Distributed Fiber Sensors, Optical Imaging, Gas Spectroscopy and Integrated Optics, System-on-Chip technologies, and Medical Sciences. Each theme represents a critical frontier in photonics research, driving the development of novel sensing techniques, advanced diagnostic systems, miniaturized platforms, and integrated photonic solutions for applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and industrial sectors.
PRINCIPAL RESEARCHER
Prof Ir Dr Ahmad Ashrif A BAKAR
B.EEE (UNITEN), M.Sc (UPM), Ph.D (UQ), SM.IEEE, SM.OSA.
Optical Sensor Design & Systems
ashrif [at] ukm.edu.my
Scopus ID: 56926940300
Prof Ir Dr Norhana ARSAD
B.Eng. (UPM), M.Sc (UPM), Ph.D (Strathclyde), SM.IEEE.
Gas Spectroscopy & Integrated Optics
noa [at] ukm.edu.my
Scopus ID: 24723397100
Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Saiful Dzulkefly ZAN
B.Eng. (Waseda), M.Eng. (SIT), D.Eng (SIT), SM.IEEE.
Distributed Fiber Optic Sensor
saifuldzul [at] ukm.edu.my
Scopus ID: 24767242400
Dr Mohd Hadri Hafiz MOKHTAR
M.Eng. (Birmingham), Ph.D (Imperial College London), M.IEEE.
Optical Fiber Microscopy & Optical Imaging
hadri [at] ukm.edu.my
Scopus ID: 16022476200
Prof Dr Sawal Hamid MD ALI
B.Eng. (UPM), M.Sc & Ph.D (Soton).
System on Chip & IoT
sawal [at] ukm.edu.my
Scopus ID: 43760945400
Assoc Prof Dr Nik Shanita SAFII
B.Sc. (UKM), M.Sc (Aberdeen), Ph.D (UKM).
Sports Nutrition
nikshanita [at] ukm.edu.my
Scopus ID: 46461915300
Photonics Technology (Photonics) welcomes collaboration in research and innovation, especially in fields related to its core expertise. Researchers, industry partners, and collaborators are encouraged to connect and explore meaningful partnerships that lead to impactful outcomes — all in pursuit of advancing photonics- and optics-based technologies for real-world applications.