Experimental quantum simulations of non-equilibrium systems with ultracold atoms
(deadline for applications : April 20, 2023)
Contact: Radu Chicireanu <radu.chicireanu@univ-lille.fr>
Understanding the non-equilibrium dynamics of interacting quantum systems is one of the great challenges of 21st century physics. In particular, it is difficult to predict the dynamics of such systems by numerical simulations, even on the most powerful (classical) computers. Recently, a new approach has been adopted, opening innovative and promising ways to solve these problems: designing “quantum simulators”, i.e. artificially designed quantum systems, which are both very flexible (with a large space of controllable parameters) and obey the same type of Hamiltonian that we want to study. By doing so, one can probe their behavior in well-controlled situations, the first step to understanding their underlying physics.
In this thesis, the successful candidate will study the physics of Bose-Einstein condensates (a very cold ensemble of identical atoms which, in certain situations, behave like a single particle), to perform quantum simulations of condensed matter problems, especially those related to disordered crystals. Disorder is relevant for many physical systems - such as in the fields of mesoscopic physics, optics, acoustics, etc. The introduction of magnetically tunable interactions, via the so-called Feshbach resonances, can create correlations between particles and modify disorder effects [3]. Moreover, the control of fundamental symmetries of the Hamiltonian [3], such as spin and time reversal, opens perspectives for the quantum simulation of new phenomena, related to topology and the quantum Hall effect [4].
The thesis will take place at the PhLAM laboratory in Villeneuve d'Ascq (Lille) under the direction of Radu Chicireanu, in charge of the experiments with a Bose-Einstein potassium condensate setup developed in the group, and will benefit from interactions with theorists in Lille and Paris.