Self-sustained oscillations of a torsional SQUID resonator induced by Lorentz-force back-action.

For the study of nanomechanical resonators, ultra-sensitive measurement techniques are crucial. However, if the measurement sensitivity approaches quantum-mechanical limits, the back-action of the detector on the resonator cannot be neglected. If the back-action is strong enough, the corresponding instability can create self-sustained oscillators in the resonator.

Fast and efficient photodetection in nanoscale quantum-dot junctions.

We report on a photodetector in which colloidal quantum dots directly bridge nanometer-spaced electrodes. Unlike in conventional quantum-dot thin film photodetectors, charge mobility no longer plays a role in our quantum-dot junctions as charge extraction requires only two individual tunnel events. We find an efficient photoconductive gain mechanism with external quantum efficiencies of 38 electrons-per-photon in combination with response times faster than 300 ns.

Coupling carbon nanotube mechanics to a superconducting circuit.

The quantum behaviour of mechanical resonators is a new and emerging field driven by recent experiments reaching the quantum ground state. The high frequency, small mass, and large quality-factor of carbon nanotube resonators make them attractive for quantum nanomechanical applications. A common element in experiments achieving the resonator ground state is a second quantum system, such as coherent photons or a superconducting device, coupled to the resonators motion.

Tunable backaction of a DC SQUID on an integrated micromechanical resonator.

We have measured the backaction of a dc superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) position detector on an integrated 1 MHz flexural resonator. The frequency and quality factor of the micromechanical resonator can be tuned with bias current and applied magnetic flux. The backaction is caused by the Lorentz force due to the change in circulating current when the resonator displaces.