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Quantum cascade lasers: fundamentals and frequency comb operation
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:39
Abstract
Intersubband transitions in quantum wells are transitions between states created by quantum confinement in ultra-thin layers of semiconductors. Because of its inherent taylorability, this system can be seen as the "ultimate quantum designer's material".
Objective
The goal of this lecture is to explore both the rich physics as well as the application of these system for sources and detectors. In fact, devices based on intersubband transitions are now unlocking large area of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Content
The lecture will treat the following chapters: - Introduction: intersubband optoelectronics as an example of quantum engineering -Technological aspects - Electronic states in semiconductor quantum wells - Intersubband absorption and scattering processes - Mid-Ir and THz ISB Detectors -Mid-infrared and THz photonics: waveguides, resonators, metamaterials - Quantum Cascade lasers: -Mid-IR QCLs -THZ QCLs (direct and non-linear generation) -further electronic confinement: interlevel Qdot transitions and magnetic field effects -Strong light-matter coupling in Mid-IR and THz range
Resources
Lecture Notes
The reference book for the lecture is "Quantum Cascade Lasers" by Jerome Faist , published by Oxford University Press.
Literature
Mostly the original articles, other useful reading can be found in: -E. Rosencher and B. Vinter, Optoelectronics , Cambridge Univ. Press -G. Bastard, Wave mechanics applied to semiconductor heterostructures, Halsted press
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Every two years
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 25 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture |
Quantum cascade lasers: fundamentals and frequency comb operation
Does not take place this semester.
|
No time listed | 2 h weekly |
| exercise |
Quantum cascade lasers: fundamentals and frequency comb operation
Does not take place this semester.
|
No time listed | 1 h weekly |
Offered In
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Doctorate Materials Science (Further information at: )
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Doctorate Physics (More Information at: )
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Subject Specialisation (Please note that this is an INCOMPLETE list of courses.)
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Electives (This is a selection of courses particularly suitable for the MSc QE. In agreement with the tutor, students may choose other courses from the ETH course catalogue.)
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