Laboratory for Atomic, Molecular and Optical Research (LAMOR)

During the 20th century, a profound understanding of atomic structure and the interactions between atomic constituents across different scales was achieved. This laid the foundation for the Second Quantum Revolution, which is currently underway, with 2025 declared the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Atomic platforms, particularly those based on ultracold atoms (recognized with the Nobel Prizes in 1995 and 2001), have played a pivotal role in these groundbreaking developments, owing to their exceptional controllability and tunability—far exceeding initial expectations. Today, we are able to leverage the principle of superposition to not only explore but also manipulate quantum correlations and entanglement, enabling the engineering of new quantum states and the study of many-body quantum processes that present significant challenges, particularly in physics and chemistry. Remarkably, we can now fabricate quantum processors and simulators with applications spanning from fundamental physics to quantum technologies, quantum information processing, quantum engineering of entangled states, as well as quantum simulation and sensing. These advances have far-reaching implications across various disciplines, including atomic and condensed matter physics, chemistry, and biology.

The Laboratory for Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Research (LAMOR) was established in 1983 to serve as a forum for both experimental and theoretical research in atomic physics. It functions as a catalyst for quantum initiatives and fosters an exciting environment for multidisciplinary research and the cross-pollination of ideas. The main objectives of the laboratory are:

1. To promote and advance research in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics, encompassing both fundamental concepts of quantum matter and the emerging quantum technology applications enabled by various AMO platforms;
2. To inspire and integrate young researchers into this captivating field of study;
3. To address the vast array of open questions and opportunities that modern AMO platforms offer, particularly with respect to future applications;
4. To stimulate the development of interdisciplinary applications at the intersection of AMO and condensed-matter physics, such as in nanotechnology and material science;
5. To establish a high-quality, recognizable entity associated with Missouri S&T that is acknowledged by AMO researchers worldwide, funding agencies, and the general public;
6. To enhance the national and international reputation of AMO research at Missouri S&T.

The research interests of our AMO faculty encompass a broad spectrum of quantum phenomena, supported by several experimental labs and theoretical groups. Key topics of focus include ultracold atoms, quantum electrodynamics, correlated few-particle dynamics, laser-atom interactions, laser cooling, the dynamical generation of exotic phases of matter, dynamical phase transitions and universality classes, pattern formation, quantum turbulence, quantum chemistry, quantum information, and quantum sensing. The LAMOR group is open to applications into its vibrant graduate program. MS&T has become a Carnegie Tier 1 University in 2025, reflecting the continued progress of the University’s commitment to excellence in research and teaching. The AMO faculty are committed to providing diverse research opportunities for students at the undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral levels. For research related opportunities please contact the AMO group leaders: Dr. Daniel Fischer, Dr. Ulrich Jentschura, and Dr. Simeon Mistakidis.