Quantum Optics Seminar by Robert Hadfield

Infrared single-photon detection with superconducting nanowires

Single photon detectors based on superconducting nanowires have emerged as a highly promising alternative for single-photon detection.  These devices offer single photon sensitivity from visible to mid infrared wavelengths with high efficiency, low dark counts and tens of picoseconds timing resolution.  I will discuss recent advances in device design, photonic integration and miniaturized cooling.  I will give an overview of advanced photon counting applications where these devices are now being deployed, including optical quantum information processing, single-photon remote sensing and dosimetry for laser medicine.