Towards a Versatile Three-Colour Femtosecond Field Synthesizer for Quantum Applications

Ultrafast optics provides a promising avenue for new frontiers of physics on timescales beyond the imagination. As the eld progresses, continuous development of new methods is required to provide an ultimate level of control and understanding of the physical processes behind it. These are largely focused around the synthesis and measurement of intense pulses of light on the femtosecond timescale to generate reliable and coherent radiation in the extreme ultraviolet (XUV) or soft X-ray regions, for use in probing electron dynamics. This has shown promise in such areas as the development of ultrafast electronic devices or new quantum control techniques. This report describes the foundational work carried out in Huxley 007 at Imperial College London - the Attolab - to develop and construct an in-house versatile 3-channel synthesizer and the diagnostic tools needed to accurately measure these electric elds. The main focus of this project has to become
familiarized with the extensive range of techniques and technologies within the lab and to overcome experimental challenges faced in this development, as it progresses into the PhD. In addition, analysis work is presented which provides the basis for an experimental collaboration to be carried out at
ARTEMIS at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory.

The main impact of the proposed Hub will be in training quantum engineers with a skillset to understand cutting-edge quantum research and a mindset toward developing this innovation, and the entrepreneurial skills to lead the market. This will grow the UK capacity in quantum technology. Through our programme, we nurture the best possible work force who can start new business in quantum technology. Our programme will provide multi-level skills training in quantum engineering in order to enhance the UK quantum technologies landscape at several stages. Through the training we will produce quantum engineers with training in innovation and entrepreneurship who will go into industry or quantum technology research positions with an understanding of innovation in quantum technology, and will bridge the gap between the quantum physicist and the classical engineer to accelerate quantum technology research and development. Our graduates will have to be entrepreneurial to start new business in quantum technology. By providing late-stage training for current researchers and engineers in industry, we will enhance the current landscape of the quantum technology industry. After the initial training composed of advanced course works, placements and short projects, our students will act as a catalyzer for collaboration among quantum technology researchers, which will accelerate the development of quantum technology in the UK. Our model actively encourages collaboration and partnerships between Imperial and national quantum tehcnology centres and we will continue to maintain the strong ties we have developed through the Centre for Doctoral Training in order to enhance our on-going training provisions. The Hub will also have an emphasis on industrial involvement. Through our new partnerships students will be exposed to a broad spectrum of non-academic research opportunities. An important impact of the Hub is in the research performed by the young researchers, PhD students and junior fellows. They will greatly enhance the research capacity in quantum technology. Imperial College has many leading engineers and quantum scientists. One of the important outcomes we expect through this Hub programme is for these academics to work together to translate the revolutionary ideas in quantum science to engineering and the market place. We also aim to influence industry and policy makers through our outreach programme in order to improve their awareness of this disruptive technology.