Photons are sometimes called "flying qubits" because they have very weak interaction with the environment, which allows them to travel long distances without losing information. Most proposals for quantum networking between and within quantum information systems need photonic methods. Researchers at Pitt are studying fundamental properties of photon-matter interaction, and both classical and quantum methods of using light to send signals.
- Experimental Groups
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- Kevin Chen's group develops innovative laser technology for optical sensors and integrated photonic technology.
- Hong Koo Kim focuses on the interactions of light and metal at the nanoscale and utilizing nanoscale optical properties for on-chip devices.
- The Petek Lab investigates dynamical phenomena on femtosecond time scales and with quantum confinement in solid-state materials, through light-matter interaction.
- The Snoke Lab studies the fundamentals of quantum mechanics in semiconductor systems by employing a wide range of ultrafast optical methods.
- The Youngblood Lab combines unique optoelectronic materials with scalable photonic circuits to create new platforms for low-latency machine learning, reconfigurable photonic devices, and precision biosensing.
- Theoretical/Computational Groups
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- Prof. Seshadreesan's group works in the interface of quantum optics and quantum information processing to develop quantum communication technology. Their current research focuses on designing photonic and matter-based repeaters for quantum communication networks.