Coherent preparation by laser light of quantum states of atoms and molecules can lead to
quantum interference in the amplitudes of optical transitions. In this way the optical …

Multiphoton interference reveals strictly nonclassical phenomena. Its applications range
from fundamental tests of quantum mechanics to photonic quantum information processing …

Controlling the group velocity of an optical pulse typically requires traversing a material or
structure whose dispersion is judiciously crafted. Alternatively, the group velocity can be …

We consider the dynamical behavior of a nanomechanical mirror in a high-quality cavity
under the action of a coupling laser and a probe laser. We demonstrate the existence of the …

Electromagnetically induced transparency,, is a quantum interference effect that permits the
propagation of light through an otherwise opaque atomic medium; a 'coupling'laser is used …

We report an experiment in which a light pulse is effectively decelerated and trapped in a
vapor of Rb atoms, stored for a controlled period of time, and then released on demand. We …

Analogue gravity is a research programme which investigates analogues of general
relativistic gravitational fields within other physical systems, typically but not exclusively …

We identify form-stable coupled excitations of light and matter (“dark-state polaritons”)
associated with the propagation of quantum fields in electromagnetically induced …

Einstein's theory of special relativity and the principle of causality,,, imply that the speed of
any moving object cannot exceed that of light in a vacuum (c). Nevertheless, there exist …

Modern optical techniques allow one to accurately control light using atoms and to
manipulate atoms using light. In this Colloquium the author reviews several ideas indicating …