Nonlinear Optics and Quantum Photonics
A.Y. 2026/2027
Learning objectives
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.
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.
Expected learning outcomes
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
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
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
Course Introduction
Nonlinear optics constitutes a fundamental field of modern photonics, with relevance in both the classical and quantum domains. From a classical perspective, it provides the physical principles underlying frequency conversion and generation processes, enabling access to new wavelengths over an extremely broad spectral range, extending from terahertz (THz) frequencies to the extreme ultraviolet. These techniques play a crucial role in a wide variety of applications, including advanced spectroscopy, imaging, metrology, and the development of novel laser sources.
In the quantum domain, nonlinear optics represents the key mechanism for the generation of non-classical states of radiation, such as single photons, entangled states, and squeezed states. The latter are characterized by fluctuations of specific field quadratures below the vacuum level, with important applications in quantum information, secure communication, and precision metrology.
Course Contents
The course aims to provide a systematic treatment of the main phenomena and tools of nonlinear optics, organized into the following modules:
Physics of ultrashort laser pulses and their propagation in linear and nonlinear media;
Second-order nonlinear optics (χ^(2)):
second harmonic generation (SHG),
sum- and difference-frequency generation (SFG and DFG),
generation of THz radiation;
Electro-optic effect and its applications in the realization of phase and amplitude modulators;
Third-order nonlinear optics (χ^(3)), with emphasis on self-phase modulation;
Diagnostic techniques for ultrashort laser pulses in the femtosecond regime;
Generation of quantum states of light via parametric processes, with particular focus on parametric down-conversion:
generation of single photons and squeezed states,
multimode temporal and spatial regimes,
implementations in optical cavities and single-pass configurations in nonlinear crystals.
The course integrates theoretical and phenomenological aspects with references to major experimental implementations, with the aim of providing students with the necessary tools to understand and exploit nonlinear processes in both classical and quantum regimes.
Nonlinear optics constitutes a fundamental field of modern photonics, with relevance in both the classical and quantum domains. From a classical perspective, it provides the physical principles underlying frequency conversion and generation processes, enabling access to new wavelengths over an extremely broad spectral range, extending from terahertz (THz) frequencies to the extreme ultraviolet. These techniques play a crucial role in a wide variety of applications, including advanced spectroscopy, imaging, metrology, and the development of novel laser sources.
In the quantum domain, nonlinear optics represents the key mechanism for the generation of non-classical states of radiation, such as single photons, entangled states, and squeezed states. The latter are characterized by fluctuations of specific field quadratures below the vacuum level, with important applications in quantum information, secure communication, and precision metrology.
Course Contents
The course aims to provide a systematic treatment of the main phenomena and tools of nonlinear optics, organized into the following modules:
Physics of ultrashort laser pulses and their propagation in linear and nonlinear media;
Second-order nonlinear optics (χ^(2)):
second harmonic generation (SHG),
sum- and difference-frequency generation (SFG and DFG),
generation of THz radiation;
Electro-optic effect and its applications in the realization of phase and amplitude modulators;
Third-order nonlinear optics (χ^(3)), with emphasis on self-phase modulation;
Diagnostic techniques for ultrashort laser pulses in the femtosecond regime;
Generation of quantum states of light via parametric processes, with particular focus on parametric down-conversion:
generation of single photons and squeezed states,
multimode temporal and spatial regimes,
implementations in optical cavities and single-pass configurations in nonlinear crystals.
The course integrates theoretical and phenomenological aspects with references to major experimental implementations, with the aim of providing students with the necessary tools to understand and exploit nonlinear processes in both classical and quantum regimes.
Prerequisites for admission
Fundamental concepts of: a) non relativistic quantum mechanics,
b) classical electromagnetic field and electromagnetic waves in vacuum
b) classical electromagnetic field and electromagnetic waves in vacuum
Teaching methods
The teaching is provided through classroom lectures. Attendance is strongly recommended.
Teaching Resources
The topics covered can be found largery in the lecture notes
Assessment methods and Criteria
The examination consists of an interview that focuses on the topics covered in the course.
PHYS-03/A - Experimental Physics of Matter and Applications - University credits: 3
PHYS-04/A - Theoretical Physics of Matter, Models, Mathematical Methods and Applications - University credits: 3
PHYS-04/A - Theoretical Physics of Matter, Models, Mathematical Methods and Applications - University credits: 3
Lessons: 42 hours
Professors:
Bina Matteo, Cialdi Simone
Professor(s)