QRC Seminar Series - Prof. Rafael Rothganger de Paiva, PhD

May 16, 2023
QRC Seminar Banner

 

Prof. Rafael Rothganger de Paiva
 

Prof. Rafael Rothganger de Paiva, PhD

Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Brazil

16th May 2023, 5:00pm - 6:00pm (GST)

 

Title:

Quantum nonlinear optics with ultracold Ytterbium atoms

Abstract:

This presentation provides an overview of the principles and applications of quantum nonlinear optics, with a focus on the utilization of ultracold Rydberg atoms. Nonlinear optics studies the behavior of a material in response to light, where the material's behavior changes depending on the intensity of the light. Quantum nonlinear optics takes this a step further by investigating the behavior of light in materials at the quantum level. The long-range interaction between Rydberg atoms enables the creation of a highly nonlinear medium, capable to modify the input light with just a few photons.

Furthermore, I will present an experimental system currently under development at Sebastian Hofferberth's group, which utilizes ultracold Ytterbium atoms to generate such medium. Due to the atomic properties of Ytterbium, this experiment offers promising possibilities for improving and developing new technologies in quantum information processing.

Bio:

I earned my Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees from USP, studying cold collisions in sodium atoms under Professor Vanderlei Bagnato. After completing my Ph.D., I did a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Innsbruck, specializing in the study of trapped ions under Professor Rainer Blatt. I returned to Brazil and worked as a postdoc at USP, then got hired at UFABC, where I developed an ion trap experiment for studying quantum information processing. Later, I did a postdoc in quantum nonlinear optics with Rydberg atoms in Sebastian Hofferberth's group. Since beginning 2022, I am back at my position at UFABC.