Applied Physics

Although most of the research in this department can be classified as basic research, many very active groups are also involved in a wide range of Applied Physics - research geared to direct applications in industry. Over the years, this effort within UBC's Department of Physics and Astronomy has spawned a number of spin-off companies such as Dynapro, MoLi Energy, Vortek, Quartz Imaging, Xillix, TIR Systems, Sonigistics, Techware systems, Corona Vacuum Coaters, and Brooks Automation.

Sustainability Solutions Applied Physics

Research projects within the Sustainability Solutions Applied Physics Laboratory focus on using novel geometrical configurations to solve applied physics problems, particularly those related to new technologies for sustainability. A primary focus is in the study of interfaces containing precision structures on a size scale from 0.1 to 100 microns, and the advent of sophisticated polymeric micro-replication and thin film deposition technology has had two key impacts on this field. Recent projects have led to a variety of new technologies, including high dynamic range television, high brightness electronic paper-like displays, a wireless vehicle charging system, and illumination systems that deliver sunlight deep inside a building.

TRIUMF Particle Beam and Accelerator Physics

The TRIUMF cyclotron, open for maintenance.

TRIUMF is Canada's main centre for accelerator and beam physics expertise. UBC graduate students (and co-op or summer undergraduate students) may participate in research projects with TRIUMF physicists, either in developing and adding to the lab's existing accelerators and particle beams, or in collaborations with other laboratories.

Please see more detailed information under the Particle Nuclear Physics section of this website.

Industrial Services Office

The Industrial Services Office actively pursues more contacts with industry to improve applied research funding, create job opportunities for graduate students during and after their graduate work, and increases industry awareness of our capabilities and resources.

Pacific Institute for Mathematical Science

Applied physics at UBC can be found in a wide range of different research groups. For instance, members of this image appears courtesy of the theory group are involved in the Pacific Institute for Mathematical Science, a network that gives area students the opportunity to work on practical problems of interest to local industries.

Musical Acoustics

Musical acoustics research at UBC is focused on the properties of string instrument soundboxes. We specialize in harps, violins and a variety of East Asian instruments like the yueqin (pictured above). We do modal analysis, and have access to an excellent anechoic chamber for sound radiation measurements and (shortly) acoustic imaging.