Nelson Darkwah Oppong
Assistant Professor of Physics
B.S., ETH Zurich, 2014; M.S., 2016; Ph.D., Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 2021. Visiting Associate, Caltech, 2023-25; Assistant Professor, 2025-.
Research Interests: Quantum Science and Precision Measurement
Overview
The Darkwah-Oppong Lab is a new experimental research group, broadly interested in questions from quantum science and precision measurement, such as:
- How can we improve atomic clocks based on optical qubits?
- How can we harness control over individual atoms for improved metrology schemes?
- How can we precisely control quantum many-body dynamics to probe interesting phases of matter or engineer entangled states with metrological gain?
- How can we make use of quantum-enhanced sensitivity in precision measurements?
To investigate these and related questions, the Darkwah-Oppong Lab will use the powerful toolbox of AMO physics and rely on the rich electronic structure of alkaline-earth-like atoms as well as the versatility of programmable atom arrays.
Selected Fellowships
- Postdoctoral Feodor-Lynen Research Fellowship (hosted by J. Ye), Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, 2022 - 2024
Selected Fellowships
- Postdoctoral Feodor-Lynen Research Fellowship (hosted by J. Ye), Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, 2022 - 2024
Related Courses
Ph 221. Experimental Techniques in AMO Physics.
9 units (3-0-6); first term, 2025-26.
Prerequisites: Ph 125 ab or equivalent, or instructor's permission.
This course provides an introduction to key experimental techniques in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics. Topics include noise and random processes, feedback and control theory, electronics, photon detection, and optics. These concepts are explored through their applications in modern quantum-science experiments, such as optical atomic clocks and neutral-atom quantum computers. The course is designed to equip students with the technical foundation necessary to understand, improve, and develop advanced experimental systems in typical AMO laboratories.
Instructor: Oppong
Instructor: Oppong