Robert Boyd plenary presentation: Quantum Nonlinear Optics: Nonlinear Optics Meets the Quantum World

This plenary session first reviews the historical development of the field of nonlinear optics, starting from its inception in 1961. It then reviews some of its more recent developments, including especially how nonlinear optics has become a crucial tool for the developing field of quantum technologies. Fundamental quantum processes enabled by nonlinear optics, such as the creation of squeezed and entangled light states, are reviewed. These concepts are illustrated by means of specific applications, such as the development of secure communication systems based on the quantum states of light.

Robert W. Boyd is is currently Canada Excellence Research Chair in Quantum Nonlinear Optics at the University of Ottawa and is on the faculty at the University of Rochester. His research interests include studies of slow and fast light propagation, quantum imaging techniques, nonlinear optical interactions, studies of the nonlinear optical properties of materials, and the development of photonic devices including photonic biosensors.

Boyd has written two books, co-edited two anthologies, published over 300 research papers, and been awarded five patents. Prof. He is a fellow of the American Physical Society (APS), the Optical Society of America (OSA), and SPIE. He is a past chair of the Division of Laser Science of APS and has been a member of the Board of Directors of OSA. Boyd has served as a member of the Board of Editors of Physical Review Letters and of the Board of Reviewing Editors of Science Magazine, and is on the Board of Advisors of the Templeton Foundation.