Nonlinear Optics and Quantum Photonics

The course aims to provide the basic notions for the description of the interaction of radiation with nonlinear optical media, both in classical and quantum framework. Through the nonlinear optical response, the generation of new frequencies, the generation of single photons and non-classical states are discussed, and their quantum properties are studied. Also discussed are some modern applications of photonics, the propagation of radiation in optical fibers and the manipulation of optical signals.

At the end of the course, the student will have acquired the following skills:
1) understanding of the phenomena of the nonlinear interaction between radiation and optical, both for parametric and nonparametric interactions
2) knowledge of the basic characteristics of pulse propagation in optical fibers
3) knowledge of nonlinear optics techniques for the generation of single photons and of non-classical radiation states
4) knowledge of the main applications of modern photonics and of optical signal manipulation techniques