Neutral Atom Optical Clocks Group

Our group researches the fundamental limits of optical atomic clocks based on neutral atoms, as well as their application to quantum sensing, fundamental physics, and precision measurement. This includes the development of ultra-stable laser sources for highly coherent atom-laser interactions. We also research optical frequency combs and their application to ultra-low-noise signal generation across the electromagnetic spectrum, molecular spectroscopy, chip-scale sensors, astronomical searches for exo-planets, optical waveform generation, and more. Please see below for a more complete list of research projects and activity in our group. We have ongoing research opportunities for students and postdocs. For more information, see the contact information below.

News and Updates

NIST Researchers Develop Miniature Lens for Trapping Atoms

August 1, 2022

Atoms are notoriously difficult to control. They zigzag like fireflies, tunnel out of the strongest containers and jitter even at temperatures near absolute

Illustration shows two buildings labeled "NIST" and "JILA" facing each other with mountains in the background.

NIST Team Compares 3 Top Atomic Clocks With Record Accuracy Over Both Fiber and Air

March 24, 2021

In a significant advance toward the future redefinition of the international unit of time, the second, a research team led by the National Institute of

Flat, round shape in various shades of orange color, with copper wiring and other decorations covering the top third and a small, square black object surrounded by a gold frame in the center.

NIST Researchers Boost Microwave Signal Stability a Hundredfold

May 21, 2020

Researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have used state-of-the-art atomic clocks, advanced light detectors, and a measurement

Gray cylinder two inches in diameter, held in gloved fingers

Spotlight: Astro-Etalon

November 25, 2019

A small role can make an astronomical impact, as is the case for a tiny NIST-built piece of a new planet-hunting project from NASA and the National Science

Projects and Programs

Bringing the SI to Global Atmospheric Greenhouse Gas Measurement

Ongoing

We are developing a comprehensive next-generation greenhouse gas (GHG) calibration system capable of extending SI traceability to global satellite remote