Missions

The postdoctoral position aims to develop a new quantum cascade laser (QCL) platform in the terahertz range with an aim of integration in photonic circuits to control and direct the on-chip THz emission. Successful achievements in the visible and in the near-infrared parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, has led to advancements in miniaturized and compact geometries. This, in turn, has enabled the implementation of highly-integrated platforms and motivated the extension to non-conventional spectral regions, as well as opening perspectives to quantum technologies, whose peculiar features are still underexploited.

Here we aim to develop a miniaturized on-chip platform for generation, detection and complete characterization of THz frequency light, permitting perspectives of the generation of non-classical squeezed states. The ultimate aim will be to exploit THz QCLs frequency combs (FCs) as nonlinear sources, coupled with optimised cavity-coupled coherent detectors. QCLs are practical miniaturized lasers at THz frequencies. FC generation, based on four-wave mixing (FWM) processes that take place within the gain medium, render QCLs as ideal candidates for the generation of on-chip multi-mode squeezed states of light.

The successful achievement of the project goals will be disruptive, assessing fundamental knowledge in the strategic fields of THz photonics and quantum technologies.

Activités

-The postdoc will be built around the activities below:
- Development of time resolved experiments to characterize and understand the nonlinearities of the new quantum devices.
- Realisation of new sensitive THz detectors
- Compare theoretical and experimental results.
- Carry out new experiences and develop new devices from models
- Prepare scientific articles and participate in workshops/conferences

Compétences

The applicant should have strong background on in terahertz physics, device fabrication, and be familiar in the preparation of complex setups for the optical and electronic characterization of devices. Knowledge and experience in optical instrumentation in the THz range would be appreciated.

Candidates must hold an internationally-recognized Ph.D.-equivalent degree (or one that will be completed in the near future) in Physics, Material Science, Nanotechnology, or Electronic or Electrical Engineering, prior to taking up the position.

Contexte de travail

This work will be funded by a European collaboration around the Quantera project QATACOMB. The work will be carried out in the LPENS nanoTHz team and will be part of the team's research activities around the ultrafast properties of optoelectronic devices. The compact European consortium, of which the CNRS is a partner, is made up of 3 partners – CNR (Italy, coordinator), CNRS (France), and the Technical University of Munich (Germany).

Contraintes et risques

Laser and Cryogenics