Quantum-optical spectroscopy of semiconductor nanostructures

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Stephan W. Koch, since 9/2016 (†)
• Subject Area: Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics ; Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
• Term: from 2011 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 201125783

Traditional laser spectroscopy is based on controlling and characterizing intensity, duration, and phase of the light source/emission. Besides these classical aspects, laser fields also contain intrinsic fluctuations which inevitably lead to intriguing quantum-optical features. In this project, we will investigate how the quantitative control and systematic utilization of these quantum effects can be applied to broaden and complement the scope of classical semiconductor spectroscopy. In particular, we will analyze how and to which degree this quantum-optical spectroscopy can be used for the superior experimental characterization of the optically generated matter states. Furthermore, we will investigate new schemes to generate particular many-body configurations with desired correlation properties, such as spatial long-range order or reduced Coulombic dephasing. Technically, we combine quantum-optical methodologies with our correlation-expansion method to simultaneously treat the many-body and quantum-optical effects in semiconductors. Besides the systematic calculation of the many-body states and their interactions, we will also characterize the quantum statistics of the re-emitted light. We will collaborate with groups in Germany and USA performing quantitative experiments designed to test relevant aspects of the theoretical predictions.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Ehemaliger Antragsteller: Professor Dr. Mackillo Kira, until 8/2016