| Summary: | <p>A leading strategy for the creation of a scalable quantum computer is through a networked architecture. This would comprise stationary nodes for quantum information processing and photonic channels for their communication and entanglement distribution. In this scheme a coherent interface between light and matter is a critical component, facilitating the deterministic and reversible transfer of quantum information between stationary and travelling qubits. This requirement may be fulfilled by a high finesse optical cavity, whose radiation field is strongly coupled to a trapped quantised emitter. Neutral atoms are an ideal species for the development of such a device, given their inherent compatibility with dielectric mirror surfaces. However, an outstanding challenge in building an elementary network of neutral atom-cavity systems is in establishing a single atom dipole trap within each cavity mode. This thesis presents the development of an open-access cavity suitable for single atom localisation, whilst maintaining strong atom-cavity coupling, {g0,κ,γ} = {11,2.1,3} × 2πMHz, and the efficient extraction of generated photons, η=0.5. We consider cavity design methodology, deriving a connection between the physical properties of the optical resonator and its intended role in the production of single photons. An experimental platform is developed for the creation of cavity mirrors by laser ablation, with a high degree of geometrical control. This is used to produce a set of pyramidal micro-mirrors, demonstrated to represent a favourable alternative to the widespread adoption of fibre-tip cavities. These pyramidal mirrors are shown to support multi-feature resonators, allowing several atom-cavity interfaces to be formed using a pair of substrates. By developing a novel procedure for mirror alignment, a hybrid mirror cavity is fabricated and integrated into an experimental architecture tailored for atomic trapping. Suitability of the cavity for future experimentation is demonstrated by frequency stabilisation to an atomic resonance of <sup>87</sup>Rb.</p>
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