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:

Ohio Federal Research Network
NAWCAD AirTalent Program

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

Ion trap chamber and optics

News and Updates

Sun
NASA GRC visit
July 8, 2026

The OFRN team visited our project federal partners at the NASA Glenn Research Center, where Dimi and Anabela presented updates on progess in the lab.

Sun
Summer research begins
May 18, 2026

Welcome to summer researchers Dimi, Yugen, and Anabela!

HCL
AirTalent symposium
April 15, 2026

Brenden and Dimi presented their spectroscopy and atomic source results at the NAWCAD AirTalent student symposium in Maryland.

fiber cavity
OFRN award
November 18, 2025

The Ohio Federal Research Network awarded funding to a collaboration between OSU, Denison, and the Columbus-based company SRICO, Inc. to develop fiber Fabry-Perot cavities for quantum networks.

hyperfine splitting graph
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.

Denison University
100 West College Street
Granville, Ohio 43023

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