WaterFEL at the University of Waterloo
In a thrilling convergence of cutting-edge science and pioneering research, the University of Waterloo's Faculty of Science proudly announces the establishment of North America's only Infrared Free Electron Laser (IR-FEL) user facility named WaterFEL. This groundbreaking initiative promises to revolutionize research across physics, chemistry, materials science and beyond, offering unprecedented capabilities for studying ultrafast processes and exploring new frontiers in science and technology. This facility will position the University of Waterloo at the forefront of laser technology and scientific innovation on the continent.
Imagine a future where humanity has conquered the challenges of metabolic diseases, ensuring that every individual enjoys a healthy and vibrant life. A world where diabetes, glaucoma and obesity are cured, where neonatal diseases like galactosemia and phenylketonuria no longer have profound health effects on children. Picture a world where clean water flows abundantly, soil is free from pollutants, providing sustenance and vitality to communities worldwide. Envision a planet where our scientific endeavours lead us to explore distant realms, discovering new forms of life and expanding our understanding of the universe.
This future is not just a dream but a tangible goal researchers at the University of Waterloo can achieve within the next 15-20 years through the new WaterFEL facility.
WaterFEL Steering Committee
Scott Hopkins
Professor
Department of Chemistry
Project Lead, Director
Christian Ieritano
Project Coordinator/Manager
WaterFEL facility
Mike Ditty
Director, Infrastructure and Technical Resources
UW Faculty of Science
Facilities Manager
Christine Hancock
Associate Director, Project Development
Plant Operations
UW Architectural Lead
Mark Boland
Professor, Physics
University of Saskatchewan
Machine Physics
Alan Todd
Chief Scientific Consultant
German Sciaini
Professor
Department of Chemistry
Electron Diffraction Lead,
Ultrafast Spectroscopy Lead
UBC/TRIUMF Leads
- Taka Mamose, Univeristy of British Colombia
- Oliver Kester, TRIUMF
- Victor Verzilov, TRIUMF
Key Contributors
- Donna Strickland, Laser Physics
- Francois Lagugne-Labarthet, Nanostructured Materials
- Yunjie Xu, Molecular Spectroscopy, Molecular Chirality
- Amy Stevens, Ultrafast photochemistry/photophysics
- Travis Fridgen, Trapped Ion Spectroscopy
- Steve Dodge, THz Spectroscopy, Materials
Project Partners and Funding
Support from researchers at:
- University of Saskatchewan
- Memorial University
- Simon Fraser University
- Canadian Light Source
- University of Alberta
Public Information Program for the Nuclear Accelerator
The following list of activities outlines our plans for providing clear communication to the public regarding Waterloo’s new accelerator
- We would create a website for the public to learn about our facility, including a summary of the research and safety programs. We would write an article in our Daily Bulletin to announce the groundbreaking and provide updates as appropriate.
- Administrators and department heads for all faculties and department’s expecting to use the facility will be provided updates to ensure they are aware of all policies and use guidelines. We will also provide a FAQ for posting online and for distribution to any interested party – with a focus on the education sector in our local community.
- Lastly, we will announce the opening celebration on our main website and provide guided tours to student groups and other interested parties after opening.