CAREER: Quantum Simulation Using Ultra-Cold Atom Gases

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This CAREER proposal aims to realize quantum simulation by integrating existing techniques and new technologies into atomic gas Bose-Einstein condensation experiments. By employing ultra-cold atoms trapped in an optical lattice, quantum simulation will be used to study physics relevant to materials, technology, and fundamental science that cannot be completely understood using traditional computational techniques or available experimental methods. Three key experimental ingredients are required for achieving quantum simulation using atoms trapped in an optical lattice: preparing a well-defined initial state with one atom at each lattice site, manipulating the atomic spin in a spatially dependent fashion, and controlling the interaction between neighboring atoms in the lattice. Initial studies will focus on harnessing these tools to simulate the behavior of interacting many-body quantum systems that are not entirely understood, such as models of magnetism important to fundamental physics, materials science, statistical genetics, and models of cardiac function. The educational component will be centered on the development of a undergraduate course entitled "Physics of Gadgets" that will be part of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's Discovery Program.