Future PhD projects

Spatial quantum communication

We have built a unique apparatus for the generation of pairs of squeezed spatial beams. This we can use to demonstrate  quantum imaging protocols such as spatial teleportation and dense coding. We can also demonstrate the capability of a quantum communication system with several degrees of freedom and demonstrate by encoding an detecting modulation onto squeezing into different degrees of freedom. We have the opportunity to explore techniques for the modulation, transmission and detection of complex quantum states. This project offers interesting projects in both experiments and theory.

 Limits of optical data storage

We are studying the limitations of encoding spatial information in beam at the diffraction limit. The optical readout out small spatial marks is the key technique in optical data storage (CD, DVD, Blue-Ray)  and conventionally the data density is limited to one bit per focus.  We see the optical data readout as one example of a measurement with considerable a priori knowledge. That means we do not have to results the marks on the CD but being able to distinguish between several patterns, and for such measurements diffraction might not be the limiting process.  Based on our optimised detection modes we see possibilities for extending the limit for data density – by matching the spatial information to an optimum detector scheme. This is a case where understanding gained from quantum optics can have huge practical implications. 

Both projects offer extensive opportunities for international collaborations, including cotutelle arrangements with University Paris and student exchange programs with our partners in Europe.