From Photonic Crystal Engineering to Quantum Metrology: Research Initiatives and Developments in Colombia

Speaker: Erik Petrovish Navarro Barón
Affiliation: Grupo de Superconductividad y Nanotecnología, Universidad Nacional de Colombia
Date: Tuesday, 27 January 2026 at 12:00
Location: Seminar Room, Serrano 113b

This seminar presents a comprehensive overview of the research initiatives in Quantum Technologies and Metrology led by the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, together with a detailed analysis of recent advancements in the engineering of Photonic Crystals (PhCs) for nanoscale light manipulation.

The first part of the seminar outlines the strategic initiatives developed under a nationally funded project on Quantum Metrology and Technologies. It presents the experimental milestones enabled by advanced instrumentation acquired through this grant, covering key research pillars such as quantum metrology, high-resolution spectroscopy, quantum information and computing, and quantum materials. Furthermore, the socio-economic and scientific impact of these developments is highlighted, emphasizing their role in fostering technological sovereignty and innovation within the Colombian scientific landscape.

The second part of the presentation provides a technical review of fundamental developments in PhC research, including:

All-optical logic gates and waveguides: Design and optimization of PhC-based architectures for optical signal processing.
Cavity–emitter interactions: Analysis of the coupling between quantum emitters and localized modes in PhC cavities to enhance light–matter interactions.
Topological and chiral photonics: Exploration of symmetry-protected states and non-reciprocal light propagation in periodic dielectric structures.
Coupled cavity systems: Study of modal coupling and energy transfer in multicavity arrays.

Finally, specific contributions from the research group are showcased, including original designs for high-sensitivity sensors, optimized waveguides, and structured environments for emitters in PhC slabs. These results illustrate the potential for synergy and collaborative research between Colombian institutions and international partners, particularly with the Instituto de Física Fundamental (IFF-CSIC).