Jonas Junker

Jonas Junker

(he/him)

Junior Group Leader

Friedrich Schiller University Jena

Professional Summary

I am a Junior Group Leader working in experimental quantum optics, with a focus on photonic quantum technologies and coherent control. My research aims to develop fast, scalable, and robust quantum systems for applications in sensing, communication, and information processing.

I have extensive experience in designing and realizing complex optical experiments, ranging from the generation of non-classical light to high-bandwidth control of quantum systems. A central aspect of my work is translating fundamental concepts into practical experimental implementations.

I strongly value clear scientific communication, structured research workflows, and a collaborative working environment. My goal is to build a research group that combines scientific excellence with openness, creativity, and mutual respect.

Education

PhD in Physics

Leibniz University Hannover, Germany

M.Sc. in Physics

Leibniz University Hannover, Germany

Bsc. in Physics

Leibniz University Hannover, Germany

Interests

Coherent Quantum Control Fast Quantum Information Processing Squeezed States Quantum sensing
Research Focus

My research lies at the intersection of quantum optics, coherent control, and photonic quantum technologies. I aim to develop experimental platforms that enable ultra-fast, scalable, and noise-resilient quantum information processing.

My work focuses on the generation and control of non-classical states of light and on exploiting coherent control techniques to push quantum systems beyond current performance and bandwidth limitations. A key motivation is to use photonic architectures to overcome fundamental bottlenecks in speed, scalability, and stability.

By combining quantum optics with high-bandwidth optical and electronic control, I explore new regimes of quantum-enhanced sensing, communication, and computation.

Research topics

  • Quantum-enhanced measurement and squeezing-based techniques
  • Coherent and real-time control of photonic quantum systems
  • High-bandwidth and frequency-multiplexed quantum information processing
  • Applications in quantum sensing and communication
Research Background

My research background is rooted in experimental quantum optics, with a strong focus on the generation, control, and application of non-classical states of light. During my PhD and postdoctoral research, I worked on a range of experiments addressing quantum noise reduction, coherent control, and precision measurements.

A central part of my previous work was the development and characterization of squeezed and entangled optical states, as well as their application to quantum-enhanced metrology. This included the design and implementation of optical setups, stabilization and control of optical cavities, and the development of high-bandwidth control and readout schemes.

Through my work in international research environments, I gained extensive experience in building complex experimental systems from the ground up, leading experiments independently, and translating theoretical concepts into practical implementations. My research has resulted in multiple peer-reviewed publications and contributions to international collaborations.

This background forms the foundation of my current research direction, which aims to advance photonic quantum technologies by combining coherent control, high-bandwidth techniques, and scalable experimental platforms.

Featured Publications

A full and up-to-date list of publications is available on ORCID.

Squeezing at the Normal-Mode Splitting Frequency of a Nonlinear Coupled Cavity

Experimental demonstration of squeezing at the normal-mode splitting frequency in a nonlinear coupled optical cavity, showing quantum noise reduction around 7.47 MHz and validating …

Jonas Junker
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Quantum Enhanced Balanced Heterodyne Readout for Differential Interferometry

Experimental demonstration of quantum-enhanced balanced heterodyne readout for differential interferometry using spectrally entangled squeezed states, showing a ~3.5 dB improvement …

Daniel W. Gould
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Broadband Detection of 18 Teeth in an 11-dB Squeezing Comb

Experimental demonstration of broadband detection of an 18-mode squeezing comb with up to 11 dB noise reduction, enabling parallel quantum-enhanced sensing.

Dennis Wilken
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Frequency-Dependent Squeezing from a Detuned Squeezer

Demonstration of frequency-dependent squeezed light from a detuned optical parametric oscillator, measured via quantum tomography — an approach relevant to quantum-enhanced …

Jonas Junker
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Teaching

I am actively involved in teaching and student supervision in the field of physics and quantum optics. My teaching philosophy emphasizes a strong connection between fundamental concepts and hands-on experimental work, with a focus on developing independent scientific thinking.

Teaching and Supervision

  • Supervision of Bachelor’s and Master’s theses
  • Project-based courses in experimental physics
  • Individual mentoring of student research projects
  • Support in data analysis and experimental design

Possible Topics

  • Quantum optics and photonic systems
  • Quantum-enhanced measurements
  • Experimental methods in precision physics
  • Optical setups and laser-based experiments
  • Data analysis and numerical modeling

Students interested in thesis projects or research collaborations are encouraged to get in touch.

Contact & Collaboration

I am always interested in discussing research ideas, potential collaborations, and student projects in the area of quantum optics and photonic quantum technologies.

If you are interested in a Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis, a research project, or a scientific collaboration, feel free to get in touch.

You can reach me via email or through the contact details provided below.