--============_-1312682920==_ma============ Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" ************************************ * QUANTUM OPTICS AND ATOM OPTICS * * IN AUSTRALASIA * * * * * * * * MONTHLY NEWSLETTER * * VOL VI, NO 6 * * * * July 1998 * * * * ISSN 1325-6467 * * * Edited by: Bill Munro * \ | / * Physics, University of Queensland, * \__|__/ * QLD 4072, Australia. * | * email: munro@physics.uq.edu.au Available on WWW at: * | * phone: +61 7 3365 2422 http://www.anu.edu.au * | * fax: +61 7 3365 1242 /Physics/newsletter * * ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ CONTENTS 0. PROBLEMS 1. ABSTRACTS 2. CONFERENCE ANNOUNCEMENTS 3. WANTED TO BUY/SELL 4. SITUATIONS VACANT 5. MISC NEWS ______________________________________________________________________________ ******************************************************************************* 0. EDITORIAL NOTE Welcome to the sixth newsletter of the year. ******************************************************************************* 1. ABSTRACTS None this month ******************************************************************************* 2. CONFERENCES / WORKSHOPS =================================================== % % % A C O L S 98 % % % % Australasian Conference on Optics, % % Lasers and Spectroscopy % % % % 14th - 17th December, 1998 % % % % University of Canterbury, % % Christchurch, New Zealand % % % % Web: http://www.physics.otago.ac.nz/~acols98/ % % Email: acols98@physics.otago.ac.nz % % % =================================================== The ACOLS conference series resumes this year after the suspension for IQEC in Sydney in 1996. It will be held for the first time in New Zealand, in the modern facilities of the University of Canterbury in Christchurch. Please visit the web site for up-to-date information about the conference. The Second Announcement, which includes a Registration Form and Call for Papers, will be mailed in the next week or so. The same information is available at the web site, along with a form to add your address and other details to our mailing list. The web site also has information for authors, and an electronic abstract submission system. We look forward to welcoming scientists from new Zealand, Australia and further afield to Christchurch in December. ****************************************************************************** 4. SITUATIONS VACANT Research position in Quantum Chaos at Northeastern University A post-doctoral position is IMMEDIATELY available to carry out research in Quantum Chaos. We are seeking an individual with strong theoretical and phenomenological skills, familiar with the Quantum Chaos literature, and able to also collaborate in experiments. Experimental work is presently ongoing to study Quantum and Electromagnetic Chaos using microwave experiments. (See our website http://sagar.physics.neu.edu). A Ph.D. in Physics is required. Persons interested in short term / visiting appointments are also encouraged to apply. Applications, including a resume and names of at least 3 references should be sent to Prof.S.Sridhar, Physics Department, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115. (Tel) 617/373-2930, Fax : (617)373-2943, e-mail : srinivas@neu.edu. ________________________________________________________________________________ Postdoctoral Position in theoretical quantum optics at Georgia Tech. A postdoctoral research position is available for a recent theory Ph.D to work on the physics of quantum computing in cavity QED systems with trapped atoms/ions. Signficant interactions with a parallel experimental effort at Georgia Tech is anticipated and encouraged. The candidate should preferably have a background in quantum optics,and familiarity with laser cooling or cavity QED. The preferred starting date is 9/1/98. Interested parties should contact either Prof. Brian Kennedy (Brian.Kennedy@physics.gatech.edu), or Prof. Li.You (Li.You@physics.gatech.edu). Georgia Tech is an equal opportunity employer. ________________________________________________________________________________ POST-DOC POSITION IN EXPERIMENTAL ATOMIC PHYSICS/QUANTUM COMPUTING in the group of Dr A. Steane, Oxford University. I am looking for an experimental physicist to work on an ion trapping and cooling experiment, towards developing a quantum information processor. We are ready to start trapping ions now, (ie the background laser and vacuum work is complete) and we have plenty of equipment funding for the coming years. We benefit from the expertise of the thriving Oxford Centre for Quantum Computing, as well as a history of fundamental atomic physics research. We are in a good position to make a world-class impact in a fascinating area. I believe this is an exciting opportunity! Below is an advertisement which will shortly appear in New Scientist and elsewhere. University of Oxford Department of Physics Postdoctoral Research Assistant - RS1A Salary (uk pounds) 15,159 to 22,785 Applications are invited for a University supported postdoctoral research assistant post in experimental physics which is available from 1st October 1998 for one year in the first instance. The successful applicant will work with Dr A. Steane on a project developing a linear trap for quantum manipulation of ions towards quantum computing experiments. Experience in high precision atomic physics/quantum optics (eg laser cooling) is therefore desirable. Further particulars may be obtained from Dr A. Steane (e.mail: a.steane1@physics.oxford.ac.uk, tel. no. (44) 1865 272385). The university is an Equal Opportunities Employer ________________________________________________________________________________ NEW CHALLENGING AND EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES FOR RESEARCH IN EXPERIMENTAL OPTICS OF PERIODIC AND LAYERED STRUCTURES. The Queensland University of Technology has recently called for applications for Post-Doctoral Fellowships. The School of Physical Sciences encourages applicants who would be able to establish and develop a new direction for experimental and applied research in linear and non-linear optics of layered and periodic structures, with potential applications in photonics, optical communication, optical and acoustic signal-processing, instrumentation, evaluation and diagnostics. This research will mainly be based on theoretical advances in this area, that have recently been made within the theoretical optics and acoustics group in the School of Physical Sciences. The main directions of current theoretical research in optics and acoustics within the School are: 1. Theoretical analysis of a radically new type of Bragg scattering that is called extremely asymmetrical scattering (EAS) of linear and non-linear optical and acoustic bulk, guided and surface waves in periodic arrays. This type of scattering is characterised by an unusually strong (many times) resonant increase of the scattered wave amplitude. So far, there are no experimental observations and analysis of EAS in optics and acoustics, and this has prevented realisation of the enormous potential of EAS for development of new practical applications in optical and acoustic signal- processing, measurements and sensing. 2. Theoretical investigations of double-resonant EAS in non-uniform periodic arrays. This effect is characterised by a unique combination of two simultaneous resonances. One of these resonances takes place at a certain frequency satisfying the Bragg condition, while the other occurs at an optimal phase variation of the grating amplitude inside the array. The second strong and sharp resonance with respect to the phase variation takes place on the background of an already resonantly large scattered wave amplitude. Experimental verification and analysis of the double-resonant EAS is crucial for its successful application in photonics, ultrasonics and instrumentation. 3. Theoretical analysis of an anomalous absorption of bulk optical and acoustic waves by an ultra-thin absorbing layer. In acoustics, the anomalous absorption takes place in an ultra-thin layer of a viscous fluid between two elastic media. In optics, the anomalous absorption occurs in an ultra-thin film with very large complex or purely imaginary dielectric permittivity. This effect is characterised by a very strong maximum (as much as 100%) of the absorptivity at an optimal layer thickness that is usually much smaller than the wavelength and the wave penetration depth in the layer. Therefore, known effects, such as wave interference or frustrated total internal reflection in the layered structure, cannot explain the anomalous absorption. Potential applications of the anomalous absorption include new highly sensitive optical and acoustic measurement techniques, sensors (e.g., viscosity sensors), techniques for diagnostics of extremely small (less than 10-5 cm3) amounts of fluids, frictional contacts and lubricants, solid-fluid interfaces, biological and human fluids, techniques for precise optical diagnostics of ultra-thin films and coatings, surfaces and interfaces. 4. Investigation of resonant coupling of guided and surface optical modes in planar waveguides and optical fibres, including grating-assisted coupling and coupling of regular guides. Analysis of localised electromagnetic oscillations in the vicinity of surface non-homogeneities, their excitation and coupling. Elaboration of practical applications of these effects in optical communication and signal-processing. 5. Analysis of interaction of bulk and surface acoustic waves with small- scaled periodic corrugations at a solid-fluid interface from the view-point of development of highly sensitive ultrasonic viscosity sensors and diagnostic techniques. These theoretical developments in optics and acoustics of layered and periodic structures require experimental verification and further experimental and applied research with the final aim of developing radically new optical and acoustic devices and techniques. Therefore, the School of Physical Sciences is seeking a person who will be able to establish and develop a program of applied research in optics (and perhaps also acoustics) based on aspects of these theoretical developments. This person must have a PhD in experimental optics and a proven track record in research. At this stage, we are especially interested in rapid development of certain aspects of the optical part of the program, related specifically to topics 1, 2 and perhaps also 4 above. Therefore, experience in experimental optics is essential and some post- doctoral experience is also highly desirable. An interested person will be expected to apply for a QUT Post-Doctoral Fellowship in August this year, with the support and backing of the School of Physical Sciences. If successful in the application, they would be expected to establish and develop the experimental research program in optics. They would also be encouraged to supervise research students and apply for external and internal financial support in the form of competitive research and industrial grants. This person will work in close contact and collaboration with the established group for theoretical optics and acoustics within the School of Physical Sciences, which will provide theoretical support for the experiments. There is a modern, well-equipped Optics/Optoelectronics Laboratory within the School of Physical Sciences. Facilities for acoustic research are also available within the School of Physical Sciences and School of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Medical Engineering. For further information see the websites http://www.sci.qut.edu.au/physci/ and http://www.qut.edu.au/draa/or/arcnew.html For technical information and discussion of the specific program contact Prof. J. Pope, Head of School of Physical Sciences (Tel.: (07) 3864 2325, E-mail: j.pope@qut.edu.au), or Dr. D. K. Gramotnev (Tel.: (07) 3864 2593, E-mail: d.gramotnev@qut.edu.au). ________________________________________________________________________________ LECTURESHIP IN PHYSICS University of Bath - Department of Physics, Bath, England (Academic) Lecturer Grade A #16,655 - #21,815 Lecturer Grade B #22,726 - #29,048 In addition to a commitment to excellence in undergraduate teaching, candidates should be able to demonstrate their ability to conduct and attract funding for high quality research, preferably in an area allied to the present research interests of the Department. These include condensed matter physics, ultrasonic properties and phase transitions, magnetism and its applications, quantum-well device physics, micro and mm-wave physics, terahertz devices, micromachining, optoelectronics and their applications in communications, remote sensing and medicine. This is a three year fixed-term Lectureship to coincide with the appointment of Professor N J Cronin to the Microsulis/Royal Academy of Engineering Research Chair in Medical Device Engineering within the Department of Physics. The appointment level will depend on qualifications, research record and experience. Closing date for applications: 6 July 1998. Working towards Equal Opportunities Contact details Reference Number: quoting reference 98/162. Informal enquiries Contact Name: Professor D W Bullett: email D.W.Bullett@bath.ac.uk Application form and further particulars Contact Name:Peter J Hill, Director of Personnel, email: P.J.Hill@bath.ac.uk Telephone: 01225 826026 or phone the 24 hour answerphone service on 01225 826924 _____________________________________________________________________________ RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP AND RESEARCH STUDENTSHIP University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK (Academic) Salary range:#15,462 - #17,266 Theory of Bose-Einstein Candidates. Applications are invited for these two positions. The fellowship runs for a period of up to two years. The work involves use of both analytical and numerical techniques to investigate and simulate the coherence properties of condensates of ultra-cold atoms. Both positions are funded by the EPSRC. Candidates for the fellowship should hold a doctoral degree or equivalentand have experience in theoretical quantum optics, atomic and statistical physics. A PLACE OF USEFUL LEARNING SINCE 1796 AND COMMITTED TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES. Contact details Reference Number:Please quote ref:R46/98 Applications with a full CV giving the names and addresses of two referees should be sent. Contact Name: Prof. SM Barnett Department of Physics and Applied Physics, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G4 0NG ****************************************************************************** 5. MISC NEWS ****************************************************************************** That all folks!! The end! _______________________________________________________ Bill Munro | Centre for Laser Science, | ,,, Department of Physics | (o o) University of Queensland, | -oOO-(_)-OOo- QLD 4072, Brisbane, Australia | I am Pentium of Borg Phone: +(61 7) 3365 2422 | Divison is Futile Fax: +(61 7) 3365 1242 | You will be approximated Email: billm@physics.uq.edu.au | | WWW: http://www.physics.uq.edu.au/people/billm _______________________________________________________