Simon Thibault

Optics and photonics play a key role in today’s world. The success of an optical instrument is largely due to the use of innovative optical concepts. Given the increasingly complex development environment in biophotonics, surveillance, security and astronomy, the existence of a research chair focusing on the modeling, design and analysis of optical systems provides invaluable support in optical design to maximize the benefits for Canadian industry and optics researchers. This support for our partners includes the training of optical designers and the development of new methods for the design and characterization of optical systems. To date, our partners have been able to count on several transfers of technology and optical designers, enabling them to be more competitive on a global scale.

Simon Thibault is a current NSERC Industrial Research Chair in Optical Design. The scientific program for his second term will continue to include research activities addressing modern issues in optical design and engineering. We focus on the implementation of original optical design techniques, novel imaging concepts, innovative test fixtures and new approaches to assembly. The Industrial Chair in Optical Design actively supports a world-class infrastructure for optics training. This unique training is made possible by the contribution of partners in proposing research and development challenges. The participation, involvement and commitment of industry help to create an environment conducive to innovation and progress within the research group.

The chairholder, Simon Thibault, is an associate professor in the Department of Physics, Engineering Physics and Optics at Université Laval. Mr. Thibault teaches engineering physics and physics to graduate and undergraduate students. He sits on several international conference program committees, has published over 100 scientific papers and holds more than a dozen patents.