2025-2026 ROC Optica Speaker Series - Saleem Iqbal, The Institute of Optics (URochester)

An Optical Systems Perspective on Quantum Imaging

 Saleem Iqbal, The Institute of Optics (URochester)

Abstract

Quantum imaging has attracted a lot of attention in recent years. However, we have yet to see the field transition from predictions and demonstrations to applications where the use of quantum states of light yields tangible benefits. We argue that this issue is exacerbated by the lack of a unified, quantum framework for the modeling and assessment of optical systems. We introduce such a framework, which possesses several new and useful features, including its applicability to any quantum state, the inclusion of noise and optical losses, and an easier comparison to classical optics. We then use this approach to provide a summary of scenarios in which a genuine quantum performance advantage might be practically achievable in an imaging system.

Bio

Saleem Iqbal is a graduate student in Robert W. Boyd's group at the University of Rochester. His primary research topic is the theoretical and experimental investigation of how light with non-classical properties can be used to enhance the performance of optical microscopes. Saleem holds a BS degree in Physics from the University of New Mexico. He has also received an Honorable Mention from the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program in 2020, a full one-year GAANN fellowship from the Institute of Optics in 2024, and the best student paper award at the 2025 Optica Nonlinear Optics Topical Meeting. 

Parking and location
The talk will be held at UR River Campus, Goergen 101. Parking is available in the lot across the street in Intercampus Drive Lot, and is free for talk attendees (no pass needed).

Pre-talk dinner

A pre-talk dinner will be held at 5:15 pm at The King and I (1455 E Henrietta Rd, Rochester, NY 14623). If you would like to attend, please contact the house committee by email to make reservations. Email: house@opticarochester.org