The field of microscopy has seen multiple noteworthy and major technological shifts, from optical microscopes to electron and atomic force microscopes (AFM). A new and emerging platform is the quantum microscope. Where the measurement probe itself is a quantum object, allowing for enhanced sensitivity and the apability to image quantum effects.

The nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centre in diamond is a proven tool for such a microscope. Its unique room temperature properties and atom-like size allows for sensing and imaging at the nanoscale in ambient conditions. I will talk about the work done here at ANU to develop such a quantum microscope. In particular, I will discuss our pursuit of the ability to image electric fields at the nanoscale.

Michael Barson is a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Laser Physics Centre at ANU working in the diamond quantum science and technology group. He completed his PhD at ANU in 2018 working with Marcus Doherty, Neil Manson and Matthew Sellars. His research has focused on experimentally understanding and utilising optical defects in diamond, from fundamental spectroscopy through to new applications.