Brillouin Quantum Optomechanics

Quantum mechanics is one of our most powerful theories of nature and describes our world on the microscopic scale with incredible accuracy. Our knowledge of quantum mechanics has enabled humanity to develop powerful technologies such as the laser, electronic silicon chips in computers and smartphones, and has given us great insight into the fundamental workings of the universe. This fellowship aims to deepen our understanding and control of quantum mechanics by conducting experiments with lasers and high frequency mechanical vibrations. Dr Vanner and the members of his team will use lasers to prepare a mechanical oscillator in a quantum superposition of moving up and down 'at the same time'. This type of motion is then a realization of the infamous 'Schrodinger's cat' thought experiment. Empirically studying the dynamics of this state will enable us to shed much needed light on the fundamental mechanisms at the divide between the quantum and classical worlds. Moreover, the techniques developed, and the new knowledge gained within this project, will be utilized to develop powerful new quantum-physics-enhanced technologies for the information processing applications of the future.

This research programme can generate impact in several diverse areas ranging from deepening our understanding of the fundamentals of physics to ultimately boosting the UK's economy. Central to this programme is the study of light and mechanical motion, which are already utilized in commercial technologies for sensing, such as accelerometers, and information processing applications. This fellowship will advance our empirical understanding of such interactions at the quantum level and develop new knowledge that can underpin near-future quantum technologies. Both near- and longer-term impact will be generated in the following areas:

(i) Knowledge and understanding: this project will generate new knowledge of the very foundations of physics and also make technical advances to improve applications. Testing quantum mechanics at a macroscopic scale can be used to experimentally test the quantum-to-classical divide, which may reveal or falsify the existence of objective decoherence mechanisms. This would have far reaching impact for humanity as it may indicate that quantum mechanics, which is one of our most successful theories of nature, may need modification. The project will also develop new protocols and crystalline-materials-based optomechanical platforms that can lead to a greater understanding in applied microphotonics. This research will have impact throughout academia and the programme will also have benefit to society and the general public via this application's outreach programme.

(ii) Training and experience: The Fellow, the project PDRA, the PhD student provided by the host, and others attracted to contribute to this research programme such as MSc students, will benefit from the training and experience gained implementing this project. This fellowship creates an opportunity for the PI to become an internationally recognized leader in the area of experimental quantum science, who will in turn train others and contribute to the global quantum-science community. The PDRA will also gain valuable experience with state-of-the-art equipment and have the opportunity to build her/his portfolio to be competitively placed to become a successful academic or quantum engineer.

(iii) Industry and the economy: The United Kingdom's economy is largely service based and a growing component of this comes from the high-technology sector. This research programme has significant potential to secure intellectual property in the areas of quantum transport, quantum networking, and light-matter interactions. Knowledge and IP in these areas will be useful to develop new technologies and may even see future application to enhance the efficiency of solar cells. Moreover, this research will help to ensure that the UK maintain an internationally competitive position in the areas of quantum science and technology.