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Topological Polaritonics

Objective

Due to their great versatility, photonic systems have been proven to be very powerful platforms for exploring topological physics and for engineering optical devices that are robust against fabrication defects and local perturbations. Right now, the most important challenges that faces this emerging field of topological photonics are (i) to break time-reversal symmetry (TRS) at optical frequencies, and (ii) to implement nonlinearities in topological modes. On the one hand, breaking TRS would allow implementing compact optical isolators and unidirectional waveguides in the edge states of topological lattices; on the other hand, nonlinearities would give rise to exotic effects emerging from the interplay of interactions and topology (e.g. fractional quantum Hall effect, topological solitons, multistability) and allow engineering active optical devices with topological robustness (e.g. topological lasers, diodes, switches...). Based on a multi-disciplinary approach, the objective of this proposal is to tackle both challenges using lattices of cavity polaritons, a half-light/half-exciton quasiparticle well-known for its nonlinear properties. In the first part of this project, we will take profit of the strong expertise of the host group in terms of microcavity etching to investigate nonlinear effects (polariton lasing, soliton formation and instabilities) emerging in the topological edge states of honeycomb polariton lattices. To do this, we will use a lattice with relevant edge terminations and appropriate exciton-photon detuning, and optically pump high polariton densities in the topologicale edge modes. Then, we will demonstrate TRS-breaking, either by using the magnetic moment of polaritons in an external magnetic field or by optically polarizing the exciton reservoir. Finally, using the approach yielding the strongest Zeeman splitting / polariton linewidth ratio, we will realize the first topological insulator with broken TRS at optical frequencies.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.

Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

MSCA-IF-EF-ST - Standard EF

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) H2020-MSCA-IF-2017

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Coordinator

CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE CNRS
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 185 076,00
Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 185 076,00
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