The Optics Division combines theory and experiment to explore the science of light and its interaction with matter, from fundamental quantum optics to next‑generation photonic technologies. Our Computational Nonlinear & Quantum Optics (CNQO) group leads in theoretical many-body and non-equilibrium light-matter simulation, while the Experimental Quantum Optics & Photonics group investigates atomic physics, quantum information, atom interferometry, nonlinear optics, and quantum technologies including sensing, computing and timing.
PhysicsQuantum Technologies & Quantum Optics
Experimental Quantum Optics & Photonics Group
Our group investigates quantum optics, quantum simulation, atomic physics, and nonlinear photonics, from fundamental studies of single atoms and photons to applications of quantum technologies including sensing, timing and computing.
Our research areas include
- Quantum simulation with single-atom imaging in optical lattices
- Precision atom interferometry
- Nonlinear atom-light interactions
- Self-organisation in ultracold atomic systems
- Quantum technologies including atomic clocks, magnetometers and quantum computers.
Computational Nonlinear & Quantum Optics Group (CNQO)
The CNQO group combines advanced theoretical and analytical techniques with state-of-the-art computational facilities to investigate:
- Fundamental theory of light and its interactions with matter
- Many-body physics
- Nonlinear optical devices
- Non-equilibrium dynamics of quantum gases
Driven by the continuing quest for the development of novel quantum information technology, we've a strong core of research in theoretical quantum optics. This is closely integrated with the experimental activities carried out by the Experimental Quantum Optics and Photonics group. We have collaborated with groups in the EU, Australia, Japan, Russia and the USA, and some of our staff are members of the Cockcroft Institute.
Our research areas are
- Bose-Einstein condensates and cold atoms
- Future light sources
- Nanophotonics
- Nonlinear photonics
- Optical angular momentum
- Quantum information
- Quantum Many-Body Systems
- Quantum imaging and communication with light
- Tensor networks