Ultracold atoms as a tool for quantum simulation, sensing, and computing

Ultracold atoms as a tool for quantum simulation, sensing, and computing
Dan Stamper-Kurn, UC Berkeley, Physics Department
Dan Stamper-Kurn
Date and time: Wed, Oct 20, 2021 - 4:00pm
Location: HAS 124
Category: Departmental Colloquium
Abstract:

Means of controlling the internal and motional states of neutral atoms allow us to create novel quantum systems with enormous flexibility.  These atomic systems serve as a play-space to explore current topics in quantum science.  I will highlight this development by providing examples from my research group’s work.  In particular, I will show how ultracold atoms placed at the intersection of several laser beams can probe geometric aspects of band structure in new ways.  I will show how real-time measurements on quantum systems can shed light on non-equilibrium thermodynamics in mesoscopic systems.  I will also show how single atoms can be used as single-quantum sensors in a scanning-probe microscope.  Finally, I will share some ideas on how ultracold atoms can play a role in quantum computing, and describe Berkeley’s new Challenge Institute for Quantum Computing as a home for such work.