QUOM · Quantum Optomechanics using Monolithic Micro-Resonators

Research groups working on mechanical systems ranging in size from nanometer-scale oscillators or centimeter-scale optical cavities to kilometer-scale gravity wave detectors are all independently approaching a regime, where the observation of quantum mechanical phenomena with mechanical objects might become observable. These results have been catalyzed by the recent development of a novel laser cooling technique which allows cooling mechanical oscillators coupled to an optical resonator. As a result researchers from backgrounds as diverse as astrophysical gravity waves, mesoscopic condensed matter physics, and quantum optics are converging on a common set of goals related to quantum effects in mechanical systems. These goals relate to the observation of a distinct set of phenoma, such as quantum-backaction, ground state cooling, entanglement and generation of non-classical states of motion which would hallmark the birth of a new research field, “quantum optomechanics”. Within this scientific setting, the applicant will join the research group of Dr. T.J. Kippenberg within the Division of Laser Spectroscopy of T.W. Haensch and seek to demonstrate quantum phenomena of mechanical objects in the form of toroidal monolithic microcavities. Within the tenure of the applicant it is expected to observe quantum mechanical phenomena relating to macroscopic mechanical objects. The training aspects of the project involve a significant enlargement of the scientific field of the applicant into a fast-advancing moving new area of opto-mechanics of micro-resonators, acquisition of cutting-edge micro-fabrication technical skills and the development of project management and apprentice guidance methods, essential for an independent research career. The hosting institution is the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ), a world renowned center for quantum optics. The applicant is a French scientist, with Ph.D. training at the ENS, and seeking to expand his scientific knowledge.