Strong optical field study of a single self-assembled quantum dot

We review the investigation of a single quantum dot driven by a strong optical field. By coherent pumpprobe spectroscopy, we demonstrate the Autler–Townes splitting and Mollow absorption spectrum in a single neutral quantum dot. Furthermore, we also show the typical Mollow absorption spectrum by driving a singly charged quantum dot in a strong optical coupling regime. Our results show all the typical features of an isolated atomic system driven by a strong optical field, such as the AC stark effect, Rabi side bands and optical gain effect, which indicate that both neutral and charged quantum dots maintain the discrete energy level states even at high optical field strengths. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.