Mikael P Backlund

Mikael P Backlund is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Illinois. His research focuses on quantum sensing, single-molecule microscopy, and nanoparticle characterization, with applications in biophysics and nanotechnology. He leads projects on quantum optical techniques for super-resolution imaging and novel sensor designs using diamond-based materials.

Key research areas include:

• Quantum limits in optical metrology
• 3D single-molecule orientation and localization
• Nanoparticle conformation dynamics
• Biological imaging at nanoscale resolutions

Backlund has received prestigious awards including the Beckman Young Investigator Award (2023) and Kavli Frontiers of Science Fellowship (2024). His work bridges quantum physics, optics, and materials science to advance next-generation imaging technologies.

Recent research highlights include:

• Development of fractional Fourier domain quantum sensing frameworks
• Chiral conformer identification in atomically precise metal nanoparticles
• Quantum-limited resolution of spontaneous emission lifetimes
• Design of diamond-based spectrometers for NMR/ESR spectroscopy

His lab explores foundational limits of optical measurements while creating practical tools for biological and materials research. Collaborations span quantum optics, nanotechnology, and biophysical imaging.