KL6003 - Quantum and Molecular Photonics

A wide range of learning and teaching approaches are used in this module that include lectures, seminars, and directed and independent learning. Lectures are used to allow the students to initially re-acquaint with fundamental concepts in Optics and Photonics before the introduction of Nonlinear photonics, Photophysical properties and Quantum Photonics. Seminars support this process through worked examples and specialistic software installed in the IT labs.

In particular, technology enhanced learning opportunities involve for example, software to visualise the interactions of electric and magnetic fields with one another and with matter and sources. Students gain greater autonomy and independence through this module and are directed to seminal references which provide a basis for further student-led exploration of the state-of-the-art. This process helps students to develop critical thinking skills for example forming judgements on the credibility of a reference. It also provides active scientific discussion and engagement, thus strengthening students’ employability through knowledge and critical thinking about special topics in photonics and the current Quantum and Molecular Photonics research landscape.

Independent study is supported by further technology-enhanced resources provided via the e-learning portal, including lecture notes, software guidance and open-access journal papers. You will be provided with a reading list and a list of aspects of the topic to be further developed as an assignment.

The assessment consists of two coursework assignments (50%, 50%). Feedback will be provided individually. The module will make use of electronic submission, assessment and feedback. Formative feedback will be provided during seminars.

The module will be delivered using a combination of lectures and seminars.
In addition to direct contact with the module team during lectures and seminars, students are encouraged to develop their curiosity by making direct contact with the module team either via email or the open-door policy operated throughout the programme. Students will also be regularly referred to supporting resources including relevant texts and multimedia relevant to the module. References to these resources will be made available through the e-learning portal and in lectures and seminars.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Demonstrate critical knowledge and understanding of the theory behind light matter interactions.
2. Demonstrate critical knowledge and understanding of the operation of quantum photonic devices.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Critically evaluate problems in nonlinear optical interactions using advanced mathematical techniques.
4. Ability to design, simulate and critically analyse quantum photonic devices.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

5. Manage your own learning, through knowledge of available reading sources, including advanced texts and research papers and scientific databases.
6. Effectively and concisely communicate complex theory in written form and design simulations.

The assessment consists of two coursework assignments (worth 50% and 50%). Coursework 1 relates to the underlying theory in advanced photonics covered in Quantum and Molecular Photonics and is a written assignment (maximum 2000 words). Coursework 2 will be a computational assignment ( maximum 20 pages) and relates to the design and simulation of quantum photonic devices and components.

SUMMATIVE MLOs
1. Coursework 1 (50%) -1, 3, 5, 6
2. Coursework 2 (50%) -2, 4, 5, 6

FORMATIVE
1. Seminar problems 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Feedback is provided to students individually and in a plenary format both written and verbally to help students improve and promote dialogue around the assessment.

Written feedback will be provided on coursework.
Formative feedback will be provided during seminars.

KD5082, KD5083, KD6041. These are core modules.

N/A

Photonics is the science of light, and it relates to the emerging field of Quantum Optics and Quantum Information, which study phenomena linked to the fundamental concepts of Quantum Physics. Quantum physics is at the heart of the modern world; light is central to multi-interdisciplinary research. “Quantum and Molecular Photonics” is likely to be a key technology in the future. This course consolidates the knowledge in this field in an instrumental process that has wide applicability in many other science and engineering domains. Quantum and Molecular Photonics module draw heavily from state-of-the-art research for example in quantum optics and nanomanufacturing techniques; laser/maser technology and brightness enhanced light sources; photophysical and functional properties of organic semiconductors; novel photonic devices and applications enabled by structured light physics. Through the module, problems and examples are used to illustrate both the fundamental and applied nature of the subject. The assessment builds on this through two challenging coursework assignments. Graduates are equally prepared for a career in industry or academia. The skills and knowledge gained through this module place you in an excellent position to capitalise on employment opportunities in new markets enabled by advances in photonics, or to progress your academic career as a professional physicist.