Quantum sensors based on vectorial light matter interaction

Polarisation structures present a largely untapped resource for light atom interactions. With state-of-the-art technology, light fields can be structured in their intensity, phase and polarisation, and our group has developed sophisticated techniques for the generation of such light.

In this project we will imprint arbitrary vector light fields onto cold rubidium atoms, transferring optical structures to atomic quantum structures, or more specifically, optical polarisation to atomic spin structures. This will allow us to explore fundamental vectorial light-matter interaction. Unlike light, atoms are influenced by magnetic fields, gravity and acceleration, offering new avenues towards vector-enhanced sensors for magnetic and inertial forces.

This project closely aligns with the EPSRC research themes "Light matter interaction and optical phenomena" and "Quantum devices components and systems", and more generally with the National Strategy for Quantum Technologies.