Diamond is widely recognized as a precious gemstone, yet in modern science it is also a remarkable material with unique properties that offer exciting opportunities for quantum physics research. In particular, certain defects in the diamond crystal lattice can behave as “artificial atoms,” enabling scientists to observe and control quantum states using light.
To foster academic exchange and provide insights into recent developments in quantum physics, quantum materials, and quantum sensing technologies, the Faculty of Physics and Engineering Physics, University of Science, VNU-HCM, is pleased to organize a seminar entitled: Diamond defects: A quantum window into matter
SEMINAR INFORMATION
- Time: 2:00 PM, Monday, October 5, 2026
- Venue: Room F200, University of Science, VNU-HCM – Campus 1 (227 Nguyen Van Cu Street, Cho Quan Ward, Ho Chi Minh City)
- Registration: Register for the Seminar
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Prof. Jean-François Roch
- Professor of Physics, ENS Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay
- Director, Quantum Saclay
Prof. Jean-François Roch is a physicist working in the field of quantum physics, with research interests including quantum sensing based on diamond defects, light–matter interactions, and the application of quantum spin systems to materials research.
Professional profiles:
ABSTRACT
Diamond is much more than a gemstone: it is also a remarkable material for quantum physics. Certain defects in its crystal lattice behave like artificial atoms, which can be observed and controlled using light. Among them, the nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center combines a nitrogen impurity with a vacant site in the crystal. Its spin - a quantum property sensitive to its environment - allows us to probe magnetic fields on a local scale.
Starting with the history of diamond and its synthesis, Prof. Roch will present the principles behind these sensors and the research conducted on their applications. We will see how light and microwaves can be used to prepare, manipulate, and read the state of a spin in diamond.
We will then explore an application in which diamond plays a dual role: compressing matter and measuring a magnetic response. When integrated into a diamond anvil cell, NV centers thus provide a window into materials subjected to extreme pressures. In particular, they offer a way to study superconductivity by observing the expulsion of the magnetic field that characterizes it.
The Faculty of Physics and Engineering Physics warmly invites faculty members, researchers, students, and all those interested to register and attend the seminar.