Frontiers of nonlinear quantum optics: from fundamentals to technology

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Our research explores a new frontier of nonlinear optics, at the extreme edge of the quantum regime. There, we `build' coherent quantum optical nonlinearities photon-by-photon, designing nonlinear responses that shape quantum photonic states (such as single photons) at ultrafast speeds. This radically new approach to nonlinear optics is made possible by our group's control of both single quantum emitters and nanoscale light fields. In fact, we can now design these to illicit a strong nonlinear response from a single-photon, bringing us to the precipice of higher-order quantum nonlinearities where multiple individual photons simultaneously interact with a quantum object. Over the next five years we will (1) study new few-body quantum phenomena, gaining insight on fundamental nonlinear light-matter interactions at the single-photon level; (2) learn how to exploit these phenomena to manipulate quantum states on sub-nanosecond time scales; (3) design scalable quantum circuits based on these active elements. Our research will help position Canada at the forefront of the worldwide race towards viable quantum technology by providing key photonic elements for photonic quantum networks, simulators and even computers: technologies that are poised to revolutionize the way that we communicate, the way in which we discover new medicines, or how we optimize our economic decision making. The devices engineered at our Quantum Nanophotonics Lab at Queen's University are not improvements over existing architecture, but are rather based on a radically new approach that offers orders-of-magnitude improvement to size, speed and operating energy. In creating these, we develop new photonic systems, expand fundamental theory and understanding of the quantum world and educate the next generation of quantum engineers. These young scientists will be trained in state-of-the-art nanofabrication, experimental and theoretical quantum optics and advanced nanophotonic engineering, a unique blend of skills that will allow them to succeed and drive innovation across the Canadian academic and industrial sectors.