Abstract: Quantum optomechanics offers considerable promise both in fundamental and in applied science. Its rapid development is the result of a convergence from two perspectives on the physical world. From the top down, ultra-sensitive micromechanical and nanomechanical detectors have become available, utilizing the advanced materials and processing techniques of the semiconductor industry and nanoscience. And from the bottom-up perspective, quantum optics and atomic physics have yielded an exquisite understanding of the mechanical aspects of light–matter interaction, including how quantum mechanics limits the ultimate sensitivity of measurements and how measurement backaction can be harnessed to control quantum states of mechanical systems.  

The first talk will present a general tutorial introduction to quantum optomechanics at a level appropriate for non-experts, and then introduce from first principles selected recent advances. Specific examples, which will be further discussed in the second talk, include multimode aspects of optomechanics, phononic phase conjugation, the quantum control of phonon fields, and if time permits dynamic stabilization. Substantial time in the second talk will be reserved to a discussion of quantum optomechanics based heat engines and their prospects in shedding light on fundamental questions in quantum thermodynamics.  

About the Speaker: Pierre Meystre obtained his Physics Diploma and PhD from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, Switzerland. He is a Regents Professor of Optical Sciences and Physics at the University of Arizona, and since 2013 serves as Lead Editor of Physical Review Letters. His research interests include theoretical quantum optics, atomic physics, ultracold science, and quantum optomechanics. He has published well over 300 refereed papers and is the author of the text “Elements of Quantum Optics”, together with Murray Sargent III, and of the monograph “Atom Optics.” He is a recipient of the Humboldt Foundation Research Prize for Senior US Scientists, of the R.W. Wood Prize of the Optical Society of America, of the Willis E. Lamb Award for Laser Science and Quantum Optics, and is a Fellow of the American Physical Society, the Optical Society of America, and of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.  

Lecture 1: October 24, 2014 (Friday), 15:00-16:00
Lecture 2: October 27, 2014 (Monday), 15:00-16:00
Location: 606 Conference Room, No.3 Heqing Road, Haidian District