NFYK12010U Quantum Nanophotonics

Volume 2013/2014
Education
MSc Programme in Nanoscience
Content
Quantum optics in solid-state nanophotonics systems is a rapidly progressing research field that focuses on controlling the interaction between light and matter.

The course will provide an introduction to the quantum optical description of light-matter interaction in nanophotonic structures. The physics of dielectric nanophotonics structures will be discussed in details including photonic crystal cavities and waveguides. Furthermore, the optical properties of solid-state light emitters (quantum dots) are introduced. The interaction between photons and quantum dots provides the core of the course including the discussion of Wigner-Weisskopf theory of spontaneous emission in nanostructures, the master equation description of light-matter interaction with dephasing, and cavity quantum electrodynamics. In the later part of the course examples of modern research topics will be discussed including also experimental aspects of highly-efficient single-photon sources and basic quantum information
Learning Outcome

The aim of the course is to bring the students at a level where they are capable of comprehending modern research literature on quantum nanophotonics.

Specifically, after following this course students should be able to:

Skills

  • discuss the concept of dephasing and the consequences for light emission
  • analyze the different quantum electrodynamics regimes for a quantum emitter in a cavity
  • discuss methods of creating an efficient single-photon source and the applications of it
  • discuss basic quantum information protocols implemented in solid-state systems

Knowledge

  • describe basic principles of photonic crystals
  • explain the concepts of photonic crystal cavities and waveguides
  • explain fundamental principles of light emission from quantum dots
  • account for the theory of spontaneous emission in photonic nanostructures

Competences
This course will provide the students with a competent background for doing research within solid-state quantum optics, i.e. through a M.Sc. project.

It is requested that the students have followed the Quantum Optics course or something similar. It is assumed that the students have a good background in quantum mechanics, e.g., through following the physics curriculum of the first three years or something similar.
Lectures and Exercises
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Colloquia
  • 5
  • Exam
  • 1
  • Lectures
  • 28
  • Preparation
  • 144
  • Theory exercises
  • 28
  • Total
  • 206
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Oral examination, 25 min
Preparation time: 5 minutes where books and notes are allowed.
Aid
Written aids allowed
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
No external censorship
More internal examiners
Criteria for exam assesment
The highest mark (12) is given for excellent exam performance that demonstrates full mastering of the above mentioned teaching goals with no or only small irrelevant gaps.

The grade 2 is given to a student who has achieved only minimally the course goals.