Cavity QED with Localized Atoms

California Institute Of Technology, Pasadena CA

Investigators

Abstract

This research program explores quantum dynamical processes for individual atoms strongly coupled to the field of an optical cavity. The general theme of the project is an investigation of the dynamics of open quantum systems in manifestly quantum domains. The specific setting for the research is that of cavity quantum electrodynamics (cQED) in a domain of strong coupling whereby single atoms and photons can profoundly impact the evolution of the composite system. One component of the research program makes use of traditional Fabry-Perot resonators with extremely high mirror reflectively. Specific research projects in this component include the realization of reversible emission and absorption of single photons, quantum teleportation of the polarization state of a photon to the internal state of a trapped atom, and the demonstration of quantum measurement of atomic motion beyond the standard quantum limit. To continue the quest for yet stronger interactions of single atoms and photons, a second component of the research develops a new paradigm for cavity QED by employing lithographically fabricated microresonators, which have the potential to achieve equivalent reflectivities one hundred times greater than in the Fabry-Perot resonators. The whispering gallery modes of microtoroidal resonators are exploited to generate nonclassical fields and to realize quantum interactions of multiple atom-resonator systems mediated by single-photon pulses. In terms of the broader impact of the proposed research, cavity QED with strong coupling propels optical physics beyond traditional nonlinear optics and laser physics into a new regime with dynamical processes now involving atoms and photons taken one by one. The work utilize interactions in cavity QED to enable complex quantum networks, with each atom-cavity system functioning as a "quantum node" in a network linked by fiber optics. Such capabilities would impact quantum computation, communication, and metrology, as well as quantum information processing on atom chips. The research also makes important contributions to education and human resources by way of advanced scientific and technical training of undergraduates, graduate students, and postdoctoral scholars in areas of immediate importance to the nation's technological future.