October 31, 2012. Agilent Technologies Inc. has announced the opening, at the University of Leeds, of the first Agilent-equipped terahertz measurement laboratory in Europe. The new laboratory will enable research on devices, components, circuits, and systems at much higher frequencies than any other institution in the region has been able to do before.
The lab is set up in memory of professor Roger Pollard, former dean of engineering at the University of Leeds and a long-time friend of Agilent, who passed away at the end of last year. The Agilent 1.1-THz PNA network analyzer is the centerpiece of the new lab.
Peter Jimack, dean of engineering at the university, and Greg Peters, general manager of Agilent’s component test division, formally opened the laboratory. Featured guest speaker professor Giles Davies delivered a keynote presentation on terahertz technology.
“Roger Pollard had a long history of collaboration with Agilent, spanning more than 30 years, and held the Agilent Technologies chair in high-frequency measurements,” said professor Peter Jimack. “We are extremely grateful to Agilent for its continued support and, in particular, for the generous sponsorship of this exceptionally well-equipped laboratory in recognition of Roger’s contribution to Agilent’s success.”
The PNA THz network analyzer supports a broad range of projects in nanoelectronics, complemented by a new electron-beam lithography facility. In the new field of graphene, the network analyzer will allow the university staff to perform on-wafer terahertz measurements of transistors, THz biosensors, magnetic storage elements, THz spin-switches, and novel acoustoelectric devices. It will also be used to characterize THz passive components such as filters, waveguides, fibers, and antennas.
“This laboratory is a fitting tribute to Roger,” said Graham Newton, district manager, UK, for Agilent’s Electronic Measurement Group, “both in terms of providing a location for cutting-edge research as well as reflecting the close relationship Roger had with us over so many years.”
“Roger’s technical brilliance contributed to many innovations in network analyzers, calibration, and measurement science that Agilent brought to the marketplace,” said Henri Komrij, business manager, Component Test Division, Agilent. “His leadership abilities motivated engineers to be more creative, collaborative, and innovative. Roger absolutely loved development—of engineering and people. A high-frequency lab named for Dr. Pollard at Leeds, an esteemed university, is a truly appropriate honor for a well-regarded colleague.”