The high-coherence of a mode-locked femtosecond laser and its associated frequency comb provide unique opportunities for a variety of precision measurements. We are conducting research on both the fundamental noise limitations and the applied development/operation of these lasers with the primary purpose of providing the “clockwork” for the next generation of optical atomic clocks. In this role, the femtosecond laser frequency comb allows the synthesis of arbitrary frequencies of exceeding spectral purity from the ultraviolet to the microwave spectral regions. This concept of frequency synthesis has recently been extended to the line-by-line control of the numerous modes of the femtosecond laser frequency comb with the goal of generating truly arbitrary optical waveforms.

Beyond frequency metrology, we are exploring applications of these powerful tools for ultrafast science, high-precision time-domain measurements, astronomy, length metrology, high-precision time/frequency transfer, and coherent preparation of atomic or molecular states. Research areas also include development of novel femtosecond lasers and frequency combs, parametric frequency combs in high-Q microresonators, phase control of ultrashort optical pulses, reduction of timing jitter in high-speed photodetection, and exploration of the character of the white-light continuum generated by advanced nonlinear materials.

 

key words

Carrier-envelope phase control; Femtosecond lasers; Frequency measurement; Mode-locked lasers; Nonlinear optics and systems; Optical clock; Optical frequency comb; Optical waveform synthesis; Parametric process; Microresonator frequency comb;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants