Nonlinear manipulation and control of matter waves

This paper reviews some of our recent results in nonlinear atom optics. In addition to nonlinear wave-mixing between matter waves, we also discuss the dynamical interplay between optical and matter waves. This new paradigm, w hich is now within experimental reach, has the potential to impact a number of fields of physics, including the manipulation and applications of atomi c coherence, and the preparation of quantum entanglement between microscopi c and macroscopic systems. Possible applications include quantum informatio n processing, matter-wave holography, and nanofabrication.