Atomic, Molecular, Optical and Plasma Physics (AMOP)

In Atomic and Molecular Physics, research is supported in areas such as quantum control, cooling and trapping of atoms and ions, low-temperature collision dynamics, the collective behavior of atoms in weakly interacting gases (Bose-Einstein Condensates), precision measurements of fundamental constants, and the effects of electron correlation on structure and dynamics. In Optical Physics, support is provided in areas such as nonlinear response of isolated atoms to intense, ultrashort electromagnetic fields; the atom/cavity interaction at high fields; and quantum properties of the electromagnetic field. In basic Plasma Physics, support focuses on the study of the behavior of plasmas in confined magnetic structures and in laser plasma interactions.

Two centers and one user facility are supported. The Joint Institute for Laboratory Astrophysics (JILA) at the University of Colorado is supported jointly with the National Institute of Standards and Technology. JILA conducts leading-edge research in many aspects of atomic, molecular, and optical physics. The Center for Ultracold Atoms, a joint MIT-Harvard University activity, conducts research in the area of Bose-Einstein condensates and coherent atom sources. The Large Aperture Plasma Device at UCLA is supported jointly with the Department of Energy as a user facility for the study of plasma waves.