Domaines
Quantum optics/Atomic physics/Laser
Condensed matter
Quantum information theory and quantum technologies
Metrology
Type of internship
Expérimental Description
Developing a broadband, high-sensitivity accelerometer operating at cryogenic temperatures is a key challenge in many cutting-edge experimental physics domains, from quantum technologies (including near-field microscopy, quantum memories, etc.) to gravitational wave detection. To realize such a sensor, a promising approach is hybrid optomechanics, which couples quantum and mechanical degrees of freedom in a single physical system.
Rare-earth ion-doped crystals, known for their extremely narrow optical transitions at low temperature (~3K), exhibit natural optomechanical coupling through the piezospectroscopic sensitivity of the ion’s energy levels to mechanical stress. These crystals have recently emerged as strong candidates for quantum-enabled, low-temperature accelerometry, and we recently demonstrated continuous optical measurement of cryostat vibrations with such crystals, with an already promising sensitivity and bandwidth [1,2].
However, significant work is needed to obtain an ultra-sensitive, unidirectional and calibrated accelerometer.
During this internship, we will investigate the fundamental and technical limitations of the method (in terms of sensitivity and bandwidth in particular), using emulated or real vibrations. Additionally, we aim to extend the operational range to higher temperatures (up to 10K), which will be key for expanding the potential applications of our sensor
Contact
Anne Louchet-Chauvet
Laboratory : Institut Langevin - Ondes et Images - UMR7587
Team : Materials, Resonances, Interfaces
Team Website
Team : Materials, Resonances, Interfaces
Team Website