Toward Quantum Optoelectronics and Optomechanics in Flatland

Transition metal dichalcogenide monolayers and multiayers are atomically thin semiconductors that support tightly bound intra- and inter-layer excitons. In this presentation, I will describe our recent efforts to realize solid-state quantum optoelectronic devices using these atomically thin materials. In particular, I will describe how we prepare high-quality van der Waals heterostructures that feature spatially homogeneous, nearly lifetime-broadened excitons. I will then discuss the spectroscopy of intra- and inter-layer excitons in these structures and how we use them to realize atomically thin, electrically tunable mirrors. I will also describe a new approach for dynamically manipulating the exciton dynamics in these structures via electromechanical control over the suspended structures. I will end the presentation by discussing the ongoing efforts in my group to realize new quantum optical/optoelectronic/optomechanical effects in these structures.