Dr. ChunChia Chen is the Principal Investigator of the IAMS Quantum Metrology Lab at the Institute of Atomic and Molecular Sciences, Academia Sinica. The lab focuses on advancing quantum technology using ultracold alkaline-earth-like atoms, particularly ytterbium. Leveraging unique atomic properties, Dr. Chen’s research spans precision metrology, quantum sensing, quantum simulation, and scalable quantum processors.
His team explores continuous ultracold atom sources and develops core control tools and system architectures that could become the backbone of future quantum sensors, simulators, and computing platforms. This work bridges fundamental atomic physics with cutting-edge quantum technologies, creating opportunities for impactful contributions at the frontier of quantum science.
The IAMS Ytterbium Quantum Technology Lab conducts research at the intersection of atomic physics and quantum technology. We develop and apply advanced experimental platforms based on ultracold ytterbium atoms to push the limits of quantum measurement and control. Our mission encompasses two core areas:
- Precision quantum metrology and next-generation atomic clocks.
- Quantum simulation and many-body physics with long-lived atomic states.
Our research is driven by the following objectives: enabling continuous interrogation of optical qubits, exploring entanglement and many-body quantum states, and investigating architectures for continuous and scalable quantum processors. The lab welcomes students and researchers at all levels and offers projects, internships, and assistantships.
Our lab develops experimental platforms based on ultracold ytterbium (Yb) atoms and explores quantum science and technology at the intersection of precision measurement, quantum simulation, and scalable quantum systems. Current and planned research topics include:
Ultracold Ytterbium Atoms & Laser Cooling
- Narrow-line cooling and trapping of alkaline-earth-like atoms
- High-flux ultracold atom sources and continuous operation
Optical Lattice & Many-Body Quantum Physics
- Optical lattice systems for controllable quantum matter
- Quantum phases and non-equilibrium dynamics
Quantum Metrology & Precision Spectroscopy
- High-resolution spectroscopy of long-lived states
- Applications toward next-generation atomic sensors and clocks
Quantum Control & Coherence
- Coherent manipulation of optical qubits
- Stabilization and noise reduction of Hz ultrastable laser
Continuous Quantum Platforms & Scalable Architectures
- Continuous interrogation schemes and system engineering
- Building blocks for scalable quantum processors / networks
2030跨世代年輕學者方案 (新秀學者)
Education
- Ph.D. in Physics, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands (2019)
Experience
- Postdoctoral Researcher, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), USA (2020–2023)
- Postdoctoral Researcher, RIKEN, Japan (2023–2024)
Job Description
Projects:
- Imaging of ultracold alkaline-earth atoms in metastable states
Development of fluorescence and absorption imaging techniques for ultracold atoms (e.g., Sr, Yb) in metastable states.
Research includes imaging system design, signal optimization, and noise reduction.
Analysis of atomic cloud properties such as density distribution, temperature, and phase-space density using data processing and fitting methods.
Applications include quantum gas experiments, precision measurements, and many-body physics. - Cold atom manipulation and optical trapping
Laser cooling and trapping of alkaline-earth atoms using magneto-optical traps (MOT), with further transfer to optical dipole traps or optical lattices.
Topics include state preparation, transfer efficiency, and lifetime optimization.
Exploration of applications in quantum simulation and quantum information.
Preferred Intern Educational Level
Master/Bachelor students in Physics or related fields
Skill sets or Qualities
Applicants with a strong interest in experimental physics and hands-on laboratory work are encouraged to apply.
Familiarity with one or more of the following is preferred, but not required:
- Optics, lasers, or spectroscopy
- Electronics and instrumentation
- Data analysis and scientific computing
- Experience with AI-assisted coding tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, ChatGPT) or interest in applying AI/agent-based approaches to scientific workflows
Strong motivation, problem-solving ability, and willingness to learn are highly valued.
Job Description
Projects:
- Ultra-stable laser frequency stabilization using high-finesse optical cavities
Development of narrow-linewidth, low-drift laser systems using high-finesse optical resonators as frequency references.
Topics include Pound–Drever–Hall (PDH) locking techniques, thermal noise limits of optical cavities, and vibration/thermal isolation design.
Applications include optical clocks, precision spectroscopy, and quantum sensing.
Preferred Intern Educational Level
Master/Bachelor students in Physics or related fields
Skill sets or Qualities
Applicants with a strong interest in experimental physics and hands-on laboratory work are encouraged to apply.
Familiarity with one or more of the following is preferred, but not required:
- Optics, lasers, or spectroscopy
- Electronics and instrumentation
- Data analysis and scientific computing
- Experience with AI-assisted coding tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, ChatGPT) or interest in applying AI/agent-based approaches to scientific workflows
Strong motivation, problem-solving ability, and willingness to learn are highly valued.