Cold atom memories for vector images

Optical (quantum) memories are an essential building block for long-distance communication networks, and various designs have been developed to store optical information in cold atom vapours. Encoding information as images, in high-dimensional spatial modes, significantly increases the information capacity.
In this project we will design vector images, i.e. optical fields structured in their intensity, phase and polarisation, and imprint such light fields onto cold rubidium atoms, transferring optical structures to the alignment of atomic quantum structures.
This will allow us to explore fundamental vectorial light-matter interaction and investigate the possibility of vector-enhanced sensing and imaging, aligned with the EPSRC grand challenge "Quantum Physics for New Quantum Technologies".