Quantum technology with trapped atomic ions

Welcome to Steven Olmschenk's Ion Quantum Optics group. This research lab is part of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Denison University in Ohio, and an affiliate member of the Institute for Optical Science.

Our research is focused on the quantum interface between matter and light. We are exploring novel techniques to integrate single trapped atomic ions with single photons for quantum networks, as well as other quantum technologies based on atoms. In addition, these investigations may yield new insight in atomic physics and quantum optics, including a better understanding of the fundamental role of decoherence and measurement in each of these systems.

Also included on this site is relevant information about specific topics in atomic, molecular, and optical physics.


We gratefully acknowledge funding support from the:

National Science Foundation
NAWCAD AirTalent Program

and previous funding support from the Army Research Office, Research Corporation, and Denison University.

Ion trap chamber and optics

News and Updates

Most Innovative Award
IOS showcase
May 2, 2025

Dr. Olmschenk presented at the OSU IOS Optical Frontiers Showcase in May, highlighting some of the research in optics and atomic physics at Denison University.

Most Innovative Award
Most Innovative Award
April 24, 2025

Brenden and Charlotte presented at the NAWCAD AirTalent student symposium in April, where their project won the "Most Innovative Award". Congratulations!

Zemax
Lasers and optics course
January 20, 2025

Dr. Olmschenk is teaching a new course on "Lasers, Optics, and Photonics" (PHYS 220) this semester, which will cover many topics essential to experiments in laser cooling and trapping.

Sun
Summer research begins
May 13, 2024

Welcome to summer researchers Charlotte and Brenden!

ablation graph
ICAP in London
July 18, 2024

Poster presentation at ICAP in London on a new photoionization technique for barium. Many of these results were included in Erich's thesis.

OG graph
AirTalent symposium
April 24, 2024

Lara and Jack attended the NAWCAD AirTalent student symposium in Maryland in April, where Lara presented spectroscopy results for a novel laser cooling candidate.

Denison University
100 West College Street
Granville, Ohio 43023

Dr. Steven Olmschenk
email: olmschenks [AT] denison [DOT] edu
phone: 740.587.8661