The Advanced Photonics and Energy Devices Laboratory (APED Lab) at the CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL), New Delhi, is a leading research facility dedicated to advancing the frontiers of photonics and energy device science. Our multidisciplinary laboratory combines fundamental physical science with applied engineering to innovate next-generation optical technologies and sustainable energy solutions for India’s technological progress and global scientific leadership.
Our mission is to pioneer cutting-edge research in photonic devices, nonlinear optics, and advanced energy harvesting systems while nurturing future scientists through rigorous training and collaboration. We strive to bridge the gap between fundamental understanding and real-world applications, driving innovation that supports India’s renewable energy goals and optical technology sovereignty.
We develop novel photonic structures and metamaterials that manipulate light in unprecedented ways, enabling breakthroughs in high-speed communication, sensing, and quantum technologies. Our focus includes photonic crystals, integrated photonic circuits, optical sensors, and quantum photonics—all aimed at creating scalable, energy-efficient optical devices.
Our research addresses critical challenges in renewable energy conversion, particularly through the design and characterization of high-efficiency solar cells such as organic and perovskite photovoltaics. We also develop energy harvesting devices capable of capturing ambient energy sources to power autonomous systems, driven by an in-depth understanding of materials and device physics.
We investigate light-matter interactions at extreme intensities using specialized setups like Z-scan and ultrafast laser spectroscopy. This research underpins the development of all-optical switching devices, frequency converters, and optical computing components designed for next-generation telecommunication and computing applications.
Our materials program explores synthesis and characterization of novel organic semiconductors, nanostructures, and hybrid materials that form the foundation of advanced photonic and energy devices. Sophisticated spectroscopic and microscopic tools enable detailed analysis of material properties, guiding rational device design.
To support our ambitious research goals, APED Lab is equipped with cutting-edge instrumentation, including but not limited to:
UV-Vis-NIR Spectrophotometer
FTIR Spectrometers
Ultrafast Transient Absorption Spectroscopy
Solar Simulator (Class AAA) and I-V Curve Measurement Systems
Z-Scan Setup
Spin Coater, Thermal Evaporator, and Glove Box Systems
Transient Photovoltage and Transient Photocurrent (TPV-TPC)
Cyclic Voltammetry
Galvanostatic Charge Discharge
HPLC
Our laboratory fosters vibrant collaboration with leading academic institutions across India and globally, industry partners such as Tata Advanced Systems and Bharat Electronics Ltd., and government agencies like SERB. These partnerships amplify our research impact and accelerate the translation of laboratory innovations into practical technologies.
APED Lab is deeply committed to developing human capital by mentoring postdoctoral researchers, doctoral candidates, and undergraduate interns. Through workshops, seminars, and hands-on training, we prepare the next generation of scientists to lead India’s photonics and renewable energy initiatives.