Grover A. Swartzlander, Jr.

Grover A. Swartzlander, Jr. is a Professor at the Chester F. Carlson Center for Imaging Science within the College of Science at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). With a BS from Drexel University, MS from Purdue University, and Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University, he has established himself as a leading researcher in optical physics and imaging science.

• Rochester Institute of Technology
• Chester F. Carlson Center for Imaging Science
• College of Science

Swartzlander's research focuses on the fundamental properties and applications of optical vortices, radiation pressure phenomena, and their applications in space exploration. His work spans theoretical, experimental, and applied optics with significant contributions to solar sailing technology and exoplanet imaging systems.

His extensive publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on optical singularities, with particular emphasis on vortex beams and their applications. The research shows a clear progression from fundamental optical phenomena toward practical applications in space technology, particularly NASA's diffractive solar sails project which has received significant attention and funding.

Swartzlander's work on optical lift and radiation pressure has direct applications in spacecraft propulsion and attitude control systems, representing a unique intersection of fundamental optics and aerospace engineering. His research on optical vortex coronagraphy has advanced techniques for exoplanet detection and imaging.

He actively teaches graduate courses in imaging science including Optics for Imaging (IMGS-633), and oversees graduate research through thesis courses. His work has been recognized by inclusion in Stanford University's list of the world's top 2% of scientists.

Swartzlander maintains active collaborations with NASA and has developed significant research in diffractive solar sails technology, with multiple publications and patents in this area. His work bridges fundamental optical physics with practical space exploration applications.