Liquid crystal colloids Liquid crystal colloids are dispersions of particles in liquid crystals. We study pair interactions and colloidal self-assembly in liquid crystals using the laser tweezers and video microscopy. We are using 3D two-photon polymerization technique to manufacture colloids of diverse shape, including spirals, ribbed rods, handlebodies, knotted particles, Koch stars and many others. Our current goal is to understand physics of liquid crystal emulsions for photonic applications.  | Liquid crystal topology Liquid crystals are rich in topological defects that can be studied using optical microscopy. We study topological properties of liquid crystal colloids, topological defects in liquid crystal droplets and skyrmions in thin layers of Blue Phase liquid crystals. Our current projects aim at understanding the topology of liquid crystals in complex 3D scaffolds, phase transitions in highly chiral Blue Phases, and topological defect production via Kibble-Zurek mechanism.  | Liquid crystal photonics We are the initiators of the emerging field of liquid crystal photonics, which aims at producing optical circuits that are made entirely of soft matter and operate exclusively on light. We invented the first 3D microlaser made of liquid crystal and demonstrated tuneable Whispering Gallery Mode microlasers and liquid smectic microfibers. Currently, our five-year term goal is to develop optical gates made of soft matter, operating on light and gating data beyond giga Hertz rates.
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On April 1, 2019, Igor Muševič was awarded the prestigious ERC Advanced grant Light-operated logic circuits from photonic soft-matter (LOGOS). The project has been 
highlighted by the ERC
as an example of a distinguished ERC project. LOGOS aims to establish a revolutionary photonic technology based on soft matter. The project began on January 1, 2021.
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Published on 08 April 2019
