Propagation of photon bound states in waveguide quantum electrodynamics

Summary

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When optical photons propagate in free space they generally do not interact. This is because free-space propagation is entirely linear. On the other hand, atoms have a strong nonlinear response: they have a finite number of energy levels and behave entirely differently when impinged upon by one or two photons. When atoms are strongly coupled to photonic waveguides they can be used to realise a highly nonlinear system where photons interact with each other in a nonlinear fashion at the quantum scale. In these systems photons propagate in an entirely new way and form quasi-particles called photon bound states. We are interested in understanding the behaviour of these photon bound states and determining whether they can be used to realise novel sources of light.

Supervisor

Dr Sahand Mahmoodian .

Research location

School of Physics

Synopsis

In this project you will work on developing a model to try to understand the behaviour of strongly interacting systems of photons and in particular the propagation of photon bound states. The feasability of using these photon bound states to realise new sources and detectors of quantum light will also be investigated. There is also potential for collaboration with a group doing these types of experiments (Copenhagen and Basel).

The project will involve developing a numerical model (writing code) to describe quantum systems using a method called tensor networks. In addition to numerics I anticipate that this project will also include significant pen-and-paper analytic theory to develop simple models to try to capture the physics of these photon bound states.

Funding for an external stay with collaborators in Europe that work on these systems for an extended period of time is also available and such a stay is highly recommended.

Additional information

Students with HDR scholarships are welcome. For students without a scholarship, there is a scholarship available https://www.sydney.edu.au/scholarships/d/postgraduate-research-scholarship-in-quantum-optics-theory.html

The research will be located at the School of Physics in the Camperdown Campus. Work from home/flexible work arrangements are available.

Student with experience in coding (Python or similar) and previous experience in quantum physics is desired but not a strict requirement. Further information about our new group is available here.

The additional supervisors for this project is Prof Andrew Doherty.

HDR Inherent Requirements
In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
Hold a current scuba diving license;
Hold a current Working with Children Check;
Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 3009