Leonard Group

Quantum optics

Studying the quantum world of small particles and the forces that govern their behavior has proven difficult for even our most powerful supercomputers. The Léonard group seeks to gain insight into this world by studying quantum optical systems built of individually controlled atoms and photons. This could help improve materials and develop applications in quantum computing and quantum information processing.

Using arrangements of laser beams, the group cools dilute atomic gases to nanokelvin temperatures, near absolute zero. The experimental control achieved over these ultracold atoms is unique within experimental physics: it is possible to control their motional and electronic states, to arrange them in programmable patterns, and tune their interaction strength. The Léonard group combines the tools of atomic and optical physics to achieve single-particle control at fundamental length scales and very small energy scales. To reach these goals, the group traps ultracold atoms in tailored optical potentials, such as optical tweezer arrays and optical lattices, which allow quantum control of individual atoms, engineering different forms of atomic interactions, and high-fidelity atom-resolved readout.