Tricking the Eye: Seeing Green from Infrared Light
Guanghan Meng, Professor
Optometry
Applications for Spring 2026 are closed for this project.
The photopigments in the human retina are capable of absorbing two photons of the same wavelength simultaneously to create a visual sensation, named "two-photon vision". This sensation matches the appearance of light at approximately half the original wavelength. For instance, the absorption of two infrared photons can generate a visual sensation of green light. Because longer wavelengths (like infrared) are more resistant to scattering, they have the potential to provide alternative vision for individuals with certain eye conditions, such as cataracts. Additionally, light perceived through two-photon vision exhibits higher contrast than conventional single-photon vision, offering unique opportunities to develop modern display technologies based on the two-photon vision principle.
Role: The proposed undergraduate research project will focus on experimentally studying wavelength-dependent scattering effects across a variety of samples. The project is well suited for students who are eager to learn about optical experiments and explore the mysteries of human vision. Since it is an experimentally intensive project, students who can dedicate more working hours are preferred.
Qualifications: 1.Proficiency in Python programming
2.Basic knowledge of optics and physics
3.Strong work ethic and sense of responsibility
4. Willingness to learn new skills as the project evolves
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Xue Dong, Post-Doc
Hours: 9-11 hrs
Biological & Health Sciences Engineering, Design & Technologies