Precise laser spectroscopy: applications to optical trapping, interferometry and optical metrology

Our research is in quantum optics, quantum mechanics and holography.

We experimentally investigate interactions between alkali atoms and polarized laser fields leading to quantum mechanical phenomena like coherent population trapping and electromagnetically induced transparencies. We are also focused on non-linear aspects of these interactions, like Faraday rotation and enhancements of index of refraction. Theoretical problems we are investigating are:

Work in holography is towards the application of new holographic materials and improved Mach-Zehnder and Michelson interferometers using holographic optical elements for the control of polarization and mode ratios.

Related is our continuing effort for better frequency and phase stabilization of lasers using saturation spectroscopy and heterodyne technique with fast diodes.

We have international collaboration with US national laboratories, NIST and JPL, where the subject of research is quantum information and atomic frequency standards. Through collaboration with Old Dominion University the influence of particle size on matter-wave interference is investigated. The optical metrology research is done in collaboration with National Metrology Institution and Metrological Intercomparison programs.

Leader of project: Dr. Branislav Jelenkovic