Towards the Generation of Non-Classical Light in 3D Cold-Atom Samples

Abstract

Non-classical light sources, such as single photons and entangled photon pairs, are essential for quantum computing, secure quantum communication, and precision metrology. Traditional methods, while effective, often fail to produce light with the spectral properties needed for integration with systems like quantum memories. Recent breakthroughs have shown that atomic ensembles can generate non-classical light with the necessary spectral characteristics, making them highly advantageous for quantum technology applications. Advancing the generation and understanding of non-classical light through atomic ensembles forms the cornerstone of emerging quantum technologies. This project, led by Dr. Mathilde Hugbart at the Institut de Physique de Nice (INPHYNI), aims to explore the generation of non-classical light by three-dimensional cold atomic ensembles.The ultimate objective of the project is to observe photon antibunching, a hallmark of non-classical light, in 3D cold atomic ensembles, and moreover explore how dimensionality impacts the generation of non-classical light. The project comprises several phases. Initially, transmission measurements of the probe beam and second-order correlation function at the small angle will be conducted. These measurements will help identify and quantify the limitations in generating non-classical light through 3D atomic ensembles. Once identified, the strategies to circumvent those limitations will be developed and implemented. The final stage will involve modifying the detection system to measure the intensity correlation function g^2(tau)<1 in the forward direction and conducting preliminary measurements aimed at observing antibunching, characterized by g^2(0)<1. The beneficiary will gain practical experience with state-of-the-art optical and detection systems, crucial for measuring temporal light statistics and correlation functions. By the end of the internship, the beneficiary will have acquired comprehensive knowledge of experimental and computational techniques for measuring and analyzing light correlations. This expertise will directly contribute to candidate's postdoctoral research project at IFSC-USP, enabling the implementation of advanced methodologies to investigate near-field interactions and light scattering properties in dense atomic samples.