Carlo Sirtori
Events
Carlo Sirtori
École Normale Supérieure - PSL, France
Quantum Cascade Laser: A Semiconductor Laser Emitting from 3 to 300 µm
After a brief historical introduction to the ideas and scientific context that led to the invention of the quantum cascade laser, I will review the fundamental physical concepts underlying the engineering of optical gain between two-dimensional electronic states in semiconductor quantum structures. I will then discuss the ultrafast gain dynamics of these lasers, explaining why mode-locking operation does not lead to pulse generation. This will be followed by a short section describing a coherent detection technique that enables the measurement of both the phase and amplitude of a laser electric field. Finally, I will introduce the design and operation of arrays of quantum cascade nano-lasers.
About the Speaker
Carlo Sirtori is a Chair Professor at the École normale supérieure (ENS), where he also leads the Master programme on Quantum Engineering. Before entering academia, he worked in the industry and held managerial positions. During the years at AT&T Bell Labs, he made some major contributions in the field of quantum devices, such as the first demonstration of the Quantum Cascade Laser. He transitioned to an academic career for his drive on quantum physics and quantum technologies. His scientific work focuses on how the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics can be harnessed to design novel semiconductor devices, enabling hardware for quantum technology. His pioneering research is guided by technological vision and attracts outstanding students in the exciting scientific framework of the Laboratoire de Physique de l’ENS.
