In the Lab for Quantum Studies (LQS) we use the tools and techniques of experimental and theoretical Atomic/Molecular/Optical (AMO)  Physics to investigate fundamental aspects of quantum mechanics using atoms, molecules, and light.   AMO played a significant role in the The First Quantum Revolution (QM1).    QM1 brought the world transformative changes. The transistor, our digital landscape, life-saving medical technologies, and the hope for clean energy all were products of QM1. Emerging now out of AMO are new fields that are helping to define what is being called the Second Revolution in Quantum Mechanics (QM2).  Part of QM1 hinted at common-sense defying, 'spooky' but real (Nobel Prize 2022) quantum correlations that appeared too deep down and inaccessible for use, therefore dormant unless for metaphysics.  This is no longer the case:  The Second Quantum Revolution (QM2) is characterized by explicit understanding, control, and engineering (Quantum Technologies) of these quantum correlations including superposition and entanglement to change the world again.

In the BSU LQS take part in all aspects of these quantum mechanical revolutions, quantum technologies, and future.   In addition to the fundamental studies of atoms, molecule, and light prepare for  the next generation of quantum control and engineering of quantum : - computing, -internet, -security, -AI, -information sciences, and deeper metaphysics.

And, here at BSU and in the Physics degree program, you can couple Quantum Studies with Photonics and Optical Engineering (PHOE) through our PHOE BS degree program.   Much of QM2 will take place on a chip (Photonics Integrated Chip, PIC).   You can have it all here at BSU.

What role can you play after BSU and the LQS?   See for yourself and find the latest statistics by performing searches related to the National and MA initiatives in the different economic sectors related to QM2:  The National Quantum Initiative, The National Photonics Initiative, and MA Initiatives in Quantum Computing or just job opportunities in quantum technologies that detail the required ecosystem and workforce current and needs to fulfill all the promise of these quantum technologies in QM2.

How does this happen at BSU?  Undergraduate research.    We are a recognized (2019 CUR Award) National leader for undergraduate research.   We are undergraduate only, all of our research is with you.   You will do it all and you will have the experiences with this leading physics and equipment to be highly sought after in graduate school and in industry.   And if you are a teacher, you be a teacher who can convey to future generations deep knowledge and real experiences of quantum mechanics and photonics.

Here are some BSU firsts - all by BSU undergraduates students -  in the LQS :

First BSU research quality External Cavity Tunable Diode Laser

First BSU Doppler and Doppler Free Rb Hyperfine measurements

First BSU Neutral Atom Rb laser cooling and trapping (achieving the MOT is finally in sight) - this is toward techniques and principles used with Neutral atom qubits: Latest MOT Video:   full alignment, power and polarization control of pump and re-pump beams (Student Tom Melody 2024):   MOT 2024 

First BSU Optical Tweezers - this is a technique that can be used to manipulate cold atoms into quantum gates: BSU's First Optical Tweezers 

First BSU Molecular electron transfer with nano-second laser measures

First BSU Entangled pair photon source and 3-single photon detectors used for: Bell-type (CHSH, subject of 2022 Nobel Prize) measures, single photon interferometry, BB84 protocol information encryption, and HOM fundamental test for identical indistinguishable photons.

First BSU NV Quantum sensor for precision magnetometry and toward Optical Detection MRI (ODMRI)

And long term plans for a  photon-based quantum computer - this could be you!

Please do not hesitate to contact me to be part of the AOM LQS group and the future!    edeveney@bridgew.edu