Welcome to the quantum atom optics lab
Our laboratory is located in the Department of Physics of the University of Basel in Switzerland. Our research focuses on the quantum physics of ultracold atoms and on their interactions with solid-state micro- and nanostructures. The main experimental tool is an "atom chip", which allows us to laser-cool, trap, and coherently manipulate neutral atoms at micrometer distances from a chip surface. [more]
Our research combines quantum-optical with solid-state systems and experiment with theory, employing techniques of laser cooling, Bose-Einstein condensation, micro- and nanofabrication.
News from the lab
Spectroscopy of mechanical dissipation in micro-mechanical membranes 
We have measured the frequency dependence of the mechanical quality factor (Q) of SiN membrane oscillators and observed a variation of Q by more than two orders of magnitude. Several distinct resonances in Q were observed that can be explained by coupling to membrane frame modes. [more]
The paper appeared in Applied Physics Letters 99, 143109 (2011).
Realization of an optomechanical interface between atoms and a membrane 
We have experimentally realized a hybrid optomechanical system by coupling ultracold atoms to a micromechanical membrane oscillator. We observe both the effect of the membrane vibrations onto the atoms as well as the backaction of the atomic motion onto the membrane. [more]
The paper appeared in Phys. Rev. Lett. 107, 223001 (2011), see also the accompanying Physics Viewpoint.
Quantum state tomography of a spin-squeezed BEC 
We have developed a new technique for quantum state tomography on the Bloch sphere and use it to reconstruct the Wigner function of a spin-squeezed Bose-Einstein condensate. [more]
The paper appeared in the New Journal of Physics focus issue on Modern Frontiers of Matter Wave Optics and Interferometry: New J. Phys. 13, 065019 (2011).
Microwave field imaging with ultracold atoms 
We have used ultracold atoms for high-resolution imaging of microwave fields near integrated microwave circuits. [more]
The paper appeared on the cover of Applied Physics Letters [APL 97, 051101 (2010)]. For a popular article, see SPS-Communications 33, 10 (2011).