Physics & Astronomy ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-16-2026

Abstract

This dissertation presents two experimental investigations at the intersection of quantum sensing and precision optical instrumentation. The primary project demonstrates optically detected nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) of 13C nuclear spins in diamond, using state-selective Landau-Zener transitions under microwave frequency sweeping to bidirectionally transfer spin polarization between nitrogen-vacancy (NV) electron spins and remote 13C nuclear spins. This enables optical polarization and readout of large ensembles of polarized nuclear spins at low magnetic fields and room temperature, with spin dephasing times limited by longitudinal relaxation of nearby NV electron spins. The secondary project reports the design, fabrication, and characterization of metasurface lenses (“metalenses”) that use asymmetric TiO2 nanostructures to produce a polarization-dependent optical response, enabling continuous tuning of focal length and achromatic focusing across the visible spectrum, demonstrated through varifocal color imaging with white light. Together, these projects advance the precise control of light for quantum spin sensing and flat-optic wavefront engineering.

Degree Name

Physics

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Physics & Astronomy

First Committee Member (Chair)

Victor Acosta

Second Committee Member

Tara Drake

Third Committee Member

Daniel Feezell

Fourth Committee Member

Francisco Elohim Becerra

Language

English

Keywords

nitrogen-vacancy centers, optically detected nuclear magnetic resonance, diamond, Landau-Zener transitions, quantum sensing, metasurface

Document Type

Dissertation

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