Planar photonics for ion-based quantum information processing

One of the leading contenders for quantum information technology is based on cold trapped ions interacting via single photons. However, in current state-of-the-art experiments the coupling between ions and photons is still very inefficient and is mainly achieved through conventional lenses and mirrors.
The main goal of this project is to investigate how this optical access can be provided by optical waveguides integrated on the same chip that holds the ion trap. We will investigate different types of waveguides and ion-photon coupling via gratings, tapers, Fresnel lenses and other mode converters. Integration of Bragg reflectors and dielectric coatings to form resonators will be considered. Light polarisation must be considered carefully and coupling coefficients to specific ion transitions and collection efficiencies of emitted photons will be simulated and optimised to support the development of fully integrated chips for future quantum applications.