Coherent quantum matter out of equilibrium - from fundamental physics towards applications

这个项目的主要目的是在不同的研究领域探索远离平衡的量子系统中的新出现现象：从超导电路、半导体微结构和量子自旋等固态轻物质系统到超冷原子气体。在传统上截然不同的领域之间的这种交叉交流，是成功地理解远离平衡的集体过程以及开发新的有效理论工具的关键因素。EPSRC物理学大挑战调查发现，“与平衡态相比，我们对远离平衡态的理解还处于初级阶段”，而且“在理论方面，我们在知识方面存在重大差距，特别是在量子理论方面”。与此同时，这一问题“具有相当大的科学和技术重要性”，“具有不可预见的应用潜力”。我们将研究最先进的光物质系统中的奇异量子有序、双稳、图案形成和其他集体现象。我们项目的一个重要方面是专注于系统或其功能，从长远来看，这些功能可能会导致潜在的设备应用：从极化激光和LED、低阈值光学开关、光学晶体管、逻辑门，最后是极化集成电路到量子计算机。我们的理论分析将直接与我们全球项目合作伙伴的实验相联系。

The main aim of this project is to explore novel emergent phenomena in far from equilibrium quantum systems across different fields of research: from solid-state light-matter systems such as superconducting circuits, semiconductor micro-structures and quantum spins to ultra-cold atomic gases. Such cross-fertilisation between traditionally distinct areas is an essential ingredient in successful approach to understanding far from equilibrium collective processes together with the development of new efficient theoretical tools. EPSRC Physics Grand Challenge Survey has identified that "compared with that of equilibrium states, our understanding of states far from equilibrium is in its infancy" and that "on the theory front, there are significant gaps in knowledge, especially in quantum theory". At the same time the problem is "of considerable scientific and technological importance" and "with unforeseeable potential for applications". We shall study exotic quantum orders, bistabilities, pattern formation and other collective phenomena in state-of-the art light-matter systems. An important aspect of our project is to focus on systems, or their features, which in the longer run could lead to potential device applications: from polariton lasers and LEDs, low threshold optical switches, optical transistors, logic gates and finally polariton integrated circuits to quantum computers. Our theoretical analysis will be linked directly to the experiments of our project partners worldwide.