NRL's Quantum Optics section is studying quantum networking through a variety of experimental research efforts, including the development of foundational technologies such as quantum memory [1] and quantum frequency conversion [2]. We also conduct basic research on collective light-matter interactions, focusing particularly on neutral atomic gases [3] and rare-earth-ion-doped crystals. Additionally, in collaboration with other government research agencies, we are developing and characterizing a metropolitan-scale quantum networking testbed based on deployed dark fiber [4]. We are open to other related research topics, including research on applications such as secure communication and distributed sensing or timekeeping based on quantum networks.

[1] Bashkansky, M., Black, A.T., Kwolek, J.M. and Kuzmich, A., 2021. Quantum Memory. Wiley Encyclopedia of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, pp.1-17.

[2] Piotrowicz, M.J., Black, A.T. and Bashkansky, M., 2020, May. Conversion from Telecom to Atomic Photons by Four-Wave Mixing in a Warm Rb Cell. In 2020 Conference on Lasers and Electro-Optics (CLEO) (pp. 1-2). IEEE.

[3] Black, A.T., Pruessner, M.W., Park, D., Fancher, C.T., Kozak, D.A., Mahon, R., Bashkansky, M., Fatemi, F.K. and Stievater, T.H., 2018, May. A hybrid nanophotonic-magnetic chip-based atom trap. In CLEO: QELS_Fundamental Science (pp. FM2H-4). Optica Publishing Group.

[4] McKenzie, W., Richards, A.M., Patel, S., Gerrits, T., Akin, T.G., Peil, S., Black, A.T., Tulchinsky, D., Hastings, A., Li-Baboud, Y.S. and Rahmouni, A., 2024. Clock synchronization characterization of the Washington DC metropolitan quantum network (DC-QNet). Applied Physics Letters, 125(16).

key words

quantum networking; cold atoms; rare earth ions; quantum memory; quantum repeaters; quantum information; quantum communication; entanglement; quantum sensors; atomic clocks

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants