Welcome to the Lundeen Lab for Quantum Photonics
We explore the fundamental principles of quantum physics and harness the unique properties of light to develop novel technologies. Our research spans quantum optics, photonic quantum information, and metamaterials, with applications in communication, sensing, imaging, and foundational tests of quantum mechanics.
We are in Ottawa, Canada at two locations, the University of Ottawa and the National Research Council of Canada.
Fundamental issues in Quantum Physics
The study of Quantum Information has reinvigorated the effort to understand the fundamental concepts of Quantum Theory, such as measurement, the wavefunction, and entanglement. We are working to provide insight into these concepts by providing them with operational meanings. That is, definitions in terms of a simple set of operations in the laboratory. In turn, these operational meanings can inspire new applications and techniques in Quantum Information (i.e. how to measure the wavefunction). We are exploring the use of generalized measurements (e.g. weak measurement) as practical tools in metrology, optics, and Quantum Information.
Quantum Information and Metrology
Science is now becoming adept at manipulating individual quantum particles. The limits in sensitivity, speed, power, etc. of the various devices that we would use these particles in are set by the strange laws Quantum Physics. The careful control of quantum particles such as photons will allow us to build sensors with dramatically higher sensitivity (Quantum Metrology), computers than can solve intractable problems (Quantum Information), and the first provably secure communication systems (Quantum Cryptography).
Spatial Manipulation of Light
Our research explores how to shape and manipulate light in space—how it bends, focuses, twists, and propagates. We investigate how light can be sculpted in space to perform new tasks—from encoding quantum information to transforming how we see and measure the world. By tailoring these properties, we develop tools for quantum technologies, advanced imaging, and optical sensing.