Stark-shift modulation absorption spectroscopy of single quantum dots

Excitonic interband optical transitions within single InAs self-assembled quantum dots have been directly observed in a transmission experiment at 4.2 K. Using Stark shift, the excitonic energy levels of a single quantum dot are tuned into resonance with a narrow-band laser line. The Stark shift is also modulated at low frequencies. Relative changes in transmission can be detected this way down to one part per million. The oscillator strength as well the homogeneous linewidth of the transition is obtained. (C) 2003 American Institute of Physics.