Atom optics is at the forefront of modern physics, with the Nobel Prize being awarded for laser cooling and trapping of atoms in 1997, and for the observation of Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) in 2001. A Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) is a new state of matter predicted by Einstein over 70 years ago, but first seen only in 1995. These condensates, which require ultra-cold temperatures (100 nK) to form, exhibit quantum mechanical behaviour on a mesoscopic scale, and are providing exciting new insights into the fundamental nature of matter. Eventually, they may find technological application in exotic devices such as atom lasers, and give new capabilities in nano-lithography and precision measurement.

BEC and atom optics experiments: www.physics.uq.edu.au/lp/lasercool/

Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop, Norm Heckenberg, Matthew Davis, Gerard Milburn, Cathy Holmes.

Construction of the BEC on an atom chip, and theory topics related to the experiment. Projects include

Photoionization of cold atoms leading to single atom detection. Cavity quantum electrodynamics (QED) for ultra-cold atoms. Development of advanced nondestructive imaging techniques for ultra-cold atoms. High-precision feedback control for cavity quantum electrodynamics. Ultra-high stability control system of semiconductor laser systems for electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT). Topics in nonlinear dynamics of BECs.

You will acquire skills in atom optics, laser design, construction and operation, ultra-high vacuum technology, imaging systems, and experimental design. Contact Halina for further information, Physics Annexe (Building 6) room 118, ph 336 53139, email halina@physics.uq.edu.au.