Strong coupling through optical positioning of a quantum dot in a photonic crystal cavity

Single self-assembled InAs quantum dots embedded in GaAs photonic crystal defect cavities are a promising system for cavity quantum electrodynamics experiments and quantum information schemes. Achieving controllable coupling in these small mode volume devices is challenging due to the random nucleation locations of individual quantum dots. We have developed an all optical scheme for locating the position of single dots with sub-10 nm accuracy. Using this method, we are able to deterministically reach the strong coupling regime with a spatial positioning success rate of approximately 70%. This flexible method should be applicable to other microcavity architectures and emitter systems.