Optical-based spectroscopic methods for measuring chemical, optical, and physical properties of thin polymer waveguide films

Abstract

The journey through graduate school is filled with many trials and tribulations, and successful navigation will leave one indebted to people for their help and constant encouragement. For this reason, I would like to take this time to thank these people for their contributions. To Professor Emily A. Smith, I am thankful for the opportunity to be a member of her research group. Her guidance helped me developed into an independent scientific researcher. The lessons I learned from her will always be with me as I continue my journey through life. Also, I would like to thank my committee members for their guidance and support throughout the course of my graduate career. In addition, I would like to thank the Smith group members I had the privilege of knowing: Matt, Mike, Neha, Dipak, Vy, Aleem, Danny, Qiaochu, Deyny, Charles, Chamari, Brett, Jingzhe, Sadie, Nicole, and Avinash. Thank you for all the wonderful memories, and it has been an honor working with all of you. I am especially thankful to Deyny for her contributions to the work presented in Chapter 3, and for her kindness and friendship over the years. Lastly, I am thankful to my brothers, Justin and Chris, for their support and constant comedic relief. To my parents, Donald and Susan, words cannot express my gratitude for all your sacrifices through the years. You taught me to follow my dreams and to never give up. I want to thank you for all your love and support throughout my academic and athletic careers. You two will always be my number one fans. Finally, to my caring, loving, and supportive wife, Nour: my deepest gratitude. You are truly vi wonderful person, and my greatest inspiration. Your love and encouragement over the years is much appreciated and noted. I look forward to our many adventures yet to come.