Giant atoms - a new regime in quantum optics
Research Project, 2020
– 2023
This project is a theoretical study of a new fundamental regime in quantum optics: giant atoms. It is almost always assumed that atoms can be approximated as point-like when compared to the wavelength of light (photons) they interact with. This standard approximation has now been challenged in experiments, where superconducting quantum bits couple to sound waves or light at multiple discrete coupling points spaced wavelengths apart. The key attribute of giant atoms is that the multiple coupling points give rise to interference effects. Since many well-known phenomena in quantum optics rely on interference, the purpose of this project is to find such known phenomena that can be enhanced by replacing small atoms with giant ones. In particular, I aim to use giant atoms for superradiance (enhanced light emission) and for production of non-classical states of light. I will recruit 1 PhD student to conduct theoretical studies, during 4 years, of quantum-optics setups with giant atoms and their applications in quantum technologies. I will also use existing collaborations with both experimental and theoretical groups to test new ideas for giant atoms.This work has a high potential impact. The ability to manipulate light and matter at the quantum level, developed in quantum optics over the past decades, now underpins important existing (e.g., the laser) and emerging quantum technologies (e.g., quantum computing and quantum sensing), which may be further improved with giant atoms.
Participants
Anton Frisk Kockum (contact)
Chalmers, Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2), Applied Quantum Physics
Funding
Swedish Research Council (VR)
Project ID: 2019-03696
Funding Chalmers participation during 2020–2023