Cavity optomechanical device
We are interested in the physics and engineering of nanophotonic devices in the context of quantum information science, metrology, communications, and sensing. We use nanofabrication technology to develop engineered geometries that strongly enhance light-matter interactions, such as parametric nonlinear optical processes, coupling to quantum emitters, and acousto-optic effects. We study the basic device-level physics and tailor devices for specific applications, and our research generally involves computational modeling, nanofabrication, and optoelectronic and quantum photonic characterization. Recent topics have included quantum frequency conversion, single-photon and entangled-photon generation, microresonator frequency combs, optical parametric oscillators, and cavity electro-optomechanical transducers.
More generally, nanophotonic systems offer us the ability to study interesting physics in a controllable way, using platforms that are inherently suitable for the development of new technologies. Our labs are at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Gaithersburg, MD, and the Joint Quantum Institute at the University of Maryland in College Park.
JQI welcomes four newest Fellows
JQI has named four new Fellows in 2019, bringing the total number to 35. All four of the new arrivals have appointments in the Department of Physics at the University of Maryland. One Fellow is also a professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at UMD and another is a physicist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
Efficient and ultra-low-power nonlinear nanophotonics
In a recent article, we show how nonlinear nanophotonic devices can be efficient, ultra-low-power, and connect telecom and visible signals together (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41566-019-0464-9).
Quantum frequency conversion of single photons with nanophotonics
We have a new paper on quantum frequency conversion of single photons using nonlinear nanophotonics.
In particular, we report on the frequency conversion of triggered single photons from a single quantum dot in a micropillar cavity through the four-wave mixing Bragg scattering process in a silicon nitride microresonator (https://www.osapublishing.org/optica/abstract.cfm?uri=optica-6-5-563).
Chip-integrated entangled photon-pair source
Our Nature Physics paper on a chip-integrated visible-telecom entangled photon pair source for quantum communication (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41567-018-0394-3) has been highlighted!
NIST press release: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2019/02/entangling-photons-different-colors
Quantum Thermometer or Optical Refrigerator?
In an arranged marriage of optics and mechanics, JQI-NIST physicists have created microscopic structural beams that have a variety of powerful uses when light strikes them. Able to operate in ordinary, room-temperature environments, yet exploiting some of the deepest principles of quantum physics, these optomechanical systems can act as inherently accurate thermometers, or conversely, as a type of optical shield that diverts heat. .Described in a pair of new papers in Science and Physical Review Letters, the potential applications include chip-based temperature sensors for electronics and biology that would never need to be adjusted since they rely on fundamental constants of nature; tiny refrigerators that can cool state-of-the-art microscope components for higher-quality images; and improved “metamaterials” that could allow researchers to manipulate light and sound in new ways.
JQI Fellow and NIST Scientist Jacob Taylor Named PECASE Recipient
From NIST Tech Beat:
Three researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) will receive the 2010 Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), the White House announced on Monday, Sept. 26, 2011. PECASE is the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government on outstanding scientists and engineers beginning their independent research careers. Winners receive up to a five-year research grant to further their study in support of critical government missions.