Identical emitters of light in open quantum systems

Doctoral thesis, 2024

In the fast-evolving landscape of quantum technologies, the interaction between light and matter is at the forefront of exploration. ``Identical Emitters of Light in Open Quantum Systems'' delves into this captivating realm where quantum emitters, ranging from atoms to excitons and metallic nanoparticles, engage in an intricate interplay with confined light within cavities. Inspired by state-of-the-art experiments, this thesis's theoretical work navigates two distinct pathways of inquiry. First, it explores the intricate correlations that emerge when small groups of quantum emitters are coupled to a single cavity mode, probing their collective behavior.
Secondly, the thesis investigates the phenomenon of strong and ultrastrong coupling with plasmonic nanoresonators within a microcavity, giving rise to hybridized light-matter states known as polaritons.
 
In an era where quantum technologies intersect with the inevitable influence of the environment, the works in this thesis concern open quantum systems. While traditionally viewed as sources of decoherence, the interactions with the environment are reconsidered as sources for stabilization of quantum states, with potential for engineering. By unraveling the delicate interplay between quantum systems and their surroundings, this work illuminates pathways toward novel quantum technologies, and deepens our understanding of the fundamental processes that settle the behaviors of complex interacting systems of light and matter.