ROC Optica Speaker Series Presents: Optical Frequency Combs and their Application in Optical Clocks, Quantum Sensing, and Spectroscopy

Saeed Pegahan, PhD Frequency Comb Scientist at TOPTICA Photonics USA

Presented in-person in Goergen 101 and on Zoom

Zoom Information

Zoom:https://rochester.zoom.us/j/95276747247?pwd=WlBieEFIWUg2N0Y3bDFsa25KcFZCQT09
Meeting ID: 952 7674 7247
Passcode: 964579

Abstract

Optical frequency combs are vital and innovative instruments that have emerged as essential components in modern precision metrology experiments. These groundbreaking experiments encompass a wide range of applications, from remote gas sensing to the precise comparison of optical atomic clocks. In this presentation, I will discuss my role at TOPTICA Photonics Inc., one of the leading laser companies in the world. Our laser portfolio includes diode lasers, ultrafast fiber lasers, high-power fiber lasers, difference frequency combs (DFCs), among others. The integration of DFCs into TOPTICA's systems has rendered them indispensable tools in quantum technology. Furthermore, DFCs are not limited to quantum technology alone; they find utility in a broad and expanding spectrum of applications, including high-precision spectroscopy, metrology, and Rydberg atom sensing.

Biography

Saeed Pegahan is an experimental physicist with background on ultracold Fermi gases and Electromagnetically Induced Transparency (EIT) with Rydberg atoms. In 2021, Saeed earned his PhD from North Carolina State University, where he conducted extensive research on degenerate weakly interacting Fermi gases and explored collective quantum dynamics, such as spin waves, under the supervision of Professor John Thomas. Saeed received numerous awards including the Sigma XI research award from NC State University and the 5-sigma Physicist award from the American Physical Society for advocacy of the Keep STEM Talent Act.

During his postdoctoral research at William & Mary, Saeed collaborated with a diverse team of atomic and nuclear scientists on multiple projects using room-temperature Rydberg atoms and polarization magnetometry techniques to track charged particles.

As a frequency comb application scientist at TOPTICA Photonics, Saeed is involved different projects related to application of frequency combs in quantum technology and assist different teams including sales on technical questions related to frequency combs and laser refencing techniques.

Location and Parking

The talk will be held in the Room 101 of Goergen Hall. Parking is available in the Intercampus Drive Lot across the street, and is free for talk attendees (no pass needed).

The Institute of Optics address is 480 Intercampus Drive, Rochester, NY 14627.

Pre-talk Dinner

A pre-talk dinner will be held at the King and I Thailand Cuisine located at 1455 East Henrietta Rd, Rochester, NY 14623 at 5:15 p.m. on 10/3. If you would like to attend, please email the house committee at house@opticarochester.org to make reservations.