Atomic quantum technologies: from foundations to applications

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As it was during the development of quantum mechanics in the early twentieth century, understanding the structure and behaviour of atoms remains a key tool in today's "second quantum revolution." Atoms are some of the most perfect quantum objects, and provide both a test-bed and a technological opportunity for a suite of quantum technologies will lead society into a future with secure communications, ultra-precise sensing and measurement tools, and a deeper understanding of the physical world. In this research programme, the overarching objective is to harness the inherent "quantumness" of atoms to develop and study quantum systems. These atoms -- cold, ultracold, and even warm -- will be used as the medium in which quantum optical signals are stored and manipulated for quantum memories and quantum transducers; these atoms will be condensed as BECs and used to study the properties of many-body quantum systems with unique topological properties; and these atoms will serve as the medium through which electromagnetic fields will interact for novel measurement and manipulation tools in quantum metrology and quantum sensing. Though the motivations behind the objectives in this research programme vary, all are linked together by a common tool: atomic matter is exquisitely well controlled through the light-matter interaction, inclusive of the quantum mechanical phase, which can be imprinted or read out as light interacts with atoms. The objectives of this research program include i) developing and characterising an atomic quantum memory based on the "ATS protocol" (first developed in our lab), including making it more and more practical through the addition of capabilities for higher bandwidth, longer storage times, and multimode capacity; ii) developing tools and techniques for implementing non-trivial topological operations in an ultracold quantum gas (Bose-Einstein condensate), including studies of how quantumness can be preserved in the face of decoherence induced by interactions within the system and with the environment; and iii) developing technologies that take atomic quantum technologies out of the lab and into real-world applications, especially for systems where atom-microwave interactions are important. This (iii) objective includes near-term technologies using room-temperature vapours and longer-term possibilities in a hybrid quantum system that integrates cold atom technologies with cryogenic technologies. Through working at the cutting edge of quantum technologies in this research program, the HQP who do this work will develop the language, skills, and experience necessary to participate in a burgeoning quantum economy, with both industrial and and academic career options for all. With their expertise and the results of this programme, they will help commercialize new technologies, develop new ideas, and deepen our understanding of the quantum world, all as part of growing Canada's leading role in the worldwide quantum community.