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402-0442-00L 10 Credits MSC D-ITET , D-PHYS
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Quantum Optics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Jonathan Home
VVZ CR 4.6

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:35:09

Abstract

This course gives an introduction to the fundamental concepts of Quantum Optics and will highlight state-of-the-art developments in this rapidly evolving discipline. The topics covered include the quantum nature of light, semi-classical and quantum mechanical description of light-matter interaction, laser manipulation of atoms and ions, optomechanics and quantum computation.

Objective

The course aims to provide the knowledge necessary for pursuing research in the field of Quantum Optics. Fundamental concepts and techniques of Quantum Optics will be linked to modern experimental research. During the course the students should acquire the capability to understand currently published research in the field.

Content

This course gives an introduction to the fundamental concepts of Quantum Optics and will highlight state-of-the-art developments in this rapidly evolving discipline. The topics that are covered include: - coherence properties of light - quantum nature of light: statistics and non-classical states of light - light matter interaction: density matrix formalism and Bloch equations - quantum description of light matter interaction: the Jaynes-Cummings model, photon blockade - laser manipulation of atoms and ions: laser cooling and trapping, atom interferometry, - further topics: Rydberg atoms, optomechanics, quantum computing, complex quantum systems.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Selected book chapters will be distributed.

Literature

Text-books: G. Grynberg, A. Aspect and C. Fabre, Introduction to Quantum Optics R. Loudon, The Quantum Theory of Light Atomic Physics, Christopher J. Foot Advances in Atomic Physics, Claude Cohen-Tannoudji and David Guéry-Odelin C. Cohen-Tannoudji et al., Atom-Photon-Interactions M. Scully and M.S. Zubairy, Quantum Optics Y. Yamamoto and A. Imamoglu, Mesoscopic Quantum Optics

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Quantum Optics
The lecturers will communicate the exact lesson times of ONLINE courses.
  • Wed 10:00-12:00 (ON LI NE)
  • Fri 09:00-10:00 (ON LI NE)
3 h weekly
exercise Quantum Optics
The lecturers will communicate the exact lesson times of ONLINE courses.
  • Tue 09:45-11:30 (HIL C 10.2)
  • Tue 09:45-11:30 (HIL D 10.2)
  • Thu 15:45-17:30 (HCI D 6)
  • Thu 15:45-17:30 (HCI D 8)
  • Thu 15:45-17:30 (HIT H 42)
  • Thu 16:00-18:00 (ON LI NE)
2 h weekly

Offered In

  • Physics Master
    • Core Courses (One Core Course in Experimental or Theoretical Physics from Physics Bachelor is eligible; however, this Core Course from Physics Bachelor cannot be used to compensate for the mandatory Core Course in Experimental or Theoretical Physics. For the category assignment keep the choice "no category" and take contact with the Study Administration ( ) after having received the credits.)
  • Quantum Engineering Master
    • Core Courses (A minimum of 24 credits must be obtained from core courses during the MSc QE, course selection is subject to the tutor's agreement.)
      • Physics Core Courses (These core courses target students with an engineering background and all those who need additional physics foundations.)