Strong-field Physics Encounters Quantum Electro Dynamics

International Workshop
25 - 29 August 2025

Two key milestones marked the birth of quantum optics: the invention of the laser and the formulation of the quantum theory of optical coherence. Initially regarded as “applied quantum electrodynamics (QED),” quantum optics focused on single- or few-body phenomena, uncovering non-perturbative aspects of atom-light interaction. This foundation paved the way for strong laser field physics, also known as superintense laser-atom interaction physics (SILAP), which explores phenomena such as above-threshold ionization (ATI), high-harmonic generation (HHG), and nonsequential double ionization (NSDI).

With the development of increasingly powerful lasers, strong-field processes surpassed the scope of high-order perturbation theory, necessitating innovative frameworks like the strong-field approximation (SFA). These advancements extended the field from atomic targets to molecules, clusters, and two-dimensional materials. Recently, the classical treatment of light in SILAP has come under scrutiny, opening exciting possibilities for merging quantum optics with strong-field physics. This workshop will bring together leading experts to explore this convergence, focusing on two key themes:

1. Quantum Optical Signatures in Strong-Field Laser Physics
Researchers aim to harness quantum properties of driving sources to create high-photon quantum state superpositions, pivotal for advancements in quantum communication, such as quantum key distribution (QKD). These developments promise secure and efficient cryptographic systems, leveraging the unique characteristics of quantum superposition.

2. Strong-Field Processes Driven by Quantum Light
Investigating the influence of quantum-driven light fields, recent studies reveal the impact of bright squeezed vacuum states on HHG’s spectral properties. This approach also opens avenues for attosecond spectroscopy, offering new insights into gas-phase HHG and beyond.

The workshop aims to chart the future of quantum optics, attosecond physics, and quantum information science, building a transformative program at the intersection of these mature and rapidly evolving disciplines.

• quantum optics
• strong field physics
• quantum light
• attosecond physics
• ultrafast optics
• multiphoton processes
• intense laser-matter interactions
• quantum state engineering
• quantum entanglement
• quantum states characterization