Dr. Jamila Rodrigues and Dr. Yi Huang, Complexity Science and Evolution Unit

Okinawa coastal fisheries: exploring ideas of climate change and the future of fishing industry

Japan's coastline is characterized by the presence of fishing communities that play a pivotal role in the provision of seafood. These community-based fisheries provide employment for local families while simultaneously embodying cultural heritage. Just like other fishing communities worldwide, Okinawa fishers are confronted with challenges such as the impact of climatic stressors that affect marine ecosystems and the fishing industry. In this seminar, we introduce our project focusing on Okinawa fishers. We have developed a transdisciplinary study in collaboration with scholars, local fishers, and the Okinawa Prefecture Fisheries Cooperative Federation. The objective of our study is to analyze fishers’ perceptions of local climate change, their concerns about the future of the fisheries industry, and their notions of well-being. By incorporating a transdisciplinary approach, our study aims to provide a broader understanding of how local climate change is perceived by local fishers and its impacts on Okinawa fishing communities. We will introduce our research methods and some preliminary findings. We are open to discuss with the audience on how to develop strategies for researchers who are interested in engaging with coastal communities and beyond.

Zohreh Shahrabifarahani, Light-Matter Interactions for Quantum Technologies Unit

Two photon generation using optical nanofiber-trapped cold atoms useful for "Heralded single photon" scheme

We aim to experimentally realize the nonlinear effect of Four-Wave Mixing (FWM) in an atomic system cooled and trapped near an optical nanofiber (ONF) waveguide. This setup enables the generation of pairs of correlated photons, which are beneficial for heralded single-photon source schemes. The optical nanofiber facilitates this process by allowing for significantly lower power requirements and enabling efficient coupling of the generated photons back into the ONF for transmission to any desired destination. The produced atomic-based single photons will exhibit a narrowband spectrum due to the cancellation of the Doppler effect in cold atoms, and compatible with other atomic-based quantum systems, including atomic quantum memories.

Note on alcohol: From Fall 2024, we offer beer along with other refreshments. This is paid for privately by generous faculty and executives. Behave responsibly, do not ruin it, and never drink and drive. Ishikawa Taxi (098-972-5406) and Agachi Daiko (080-6485-9978) are always available.