Missions

Cuprous oxide (Cu2O) is a semiconductor with large exciton binding energy and significant technological importance in applications in the quantum technology domain, such as photovoltaics and sensors. The Quantum Optoelectronics team at LPCNO is developing a new experimental activity aimed at exploring exotic states (giant orbitals, called “Rydberg” orbitals) of electron-hole pairs (excitons) Cu2O [1-2]. Rydberg states have remarkable properties such as mesoscopic sizes and long-range giant interactions, which make them prime candidates for solid-state quantum technologies, i.e., realized in a solid structure. We study in particular the possibilities that these states offer for non-linear quantum optics, with a view to developing new types of quantum sensors.

[1] T. Kazimierczuk, et al. "Giant Rydberg excitons in the copper oxide Cu2O." Nature 514.7522 (2014): 343-347.
[2] M. Aßmann and M. Bayer. "Semiconductor Rydberg Physics." Advanced Quantum Technologies 3.11 (2020): 1900134.

Activités

The team possesses advanced laser systems (UV, Visible, NIR) and sophisticated measuring devices, allowing to probe various exotic states with great precision. We aim to use different detection schemes to better understand the giant optical nonlinearities stemming from Rydberg physics [3] and to develop novel optical control schemes in view of developing solid-state quantum sensors.

[3] C. Morin, et al. "Self-Kerr Effect across the Yellow Rydberg Series of Excitons in Cu2O." Physical Review Letters 129.13 (2022): 137401.

Compétences

The candidate should hold a PhD in physics, be highly motivated and fluent in at least English or French. A specialty in condensed matter and/or atomic (Rydberg) physics will be strongly appreciated. Good knowledge in nonlinear optics would be a plus.
The candidate should be self-motivated, autonomous, adaptable (semiconductor / atomic physics interface) and enjoy working in a collaborative team with international lab mates.

Contexte de travail

As a highly multidisciplinary laboratory, the LPCNO participates in the latest advances in the field of nano-sciences in quantum optics, nanomagnetism, nanotechnologies, organometallic chemistry and theoretical chemistry. The candidate will work at the LPCNO in the Quantum Optoelectronics (QO) research team.

Informations complémentaires

Duration is negotiable (1-2 y),
Starting date is negotiable (earliest: November 2023, ideal: January 2024, latest: mid-2024)