Project Details
Projekt
E2 Self-consistent evolution of open many-body systems
Applicant
Dr. Ulrik Tobias Donner
Subject Area
Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
Term
since 2024
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 521530974
Many-body physics studies the behavior of systems with a large number of interacting quantum particles, with applications in condensed matter research, quantum information processing, and quantum sensing. Gaining understanding for the behavior of \textit{open} many-body systems is crucial for any application of quantum technologies which inherently require coupling to external environments. Ultracold atoms provide a powerful experimental platform for investigating these topics, offering precise control over microscopic interactions and the ability to observe macroscopic phenomena. These highly controlled systems can be coupled to well-characterized external environments which may lead to the emergence of out-of-equilibrium steady states and novel phenomena such as non-stationary states. Through close collaboration with other experimental and theoretical projects, the aim of our consortium is to investigate and enhance the potential of atomic quantum gases as quantum simulators for such open many-body systems. Within our subproject we will focus on the specific approach of many-body cavity Quantum Electrodynamics (QED), where a quantum gas is coupled to an optical cavity, allowing for strong interactions mediated by photons and with controlled dissipation through the cavity. We will study non-equilibrium quantum phases and phase transitions in driven-dissipative systems, including stationary states, long-lived meta-stable structures, and non-stationary phases induced by competing interactions. The project is structured along the following three main objectives. First, we will study the self-consistent non-equilibrium phase transitions, including the preparation of a non-equilibrium many-body dark state, the driving of a phase transition with a field dominated by quantum noise, and the exploration of self-driven dynamics where crystallization competes with optomechanical effects. Second, we will engineer and study dissipation-driven spin-dependent transport, making a close analogy to the spin-Hall effect. Third, we will make use of the unique real-time access provided by the leaking cavity field and develop and apply feedback-steering schemes with the aim to reach specific target states such as non-equilibrium condensates. The multitude of experimental methods within the consortium, paired with the crucial expertise of our theoretical partners will allow us to develop a broad understanding of open and driven-dissipative many-body systems.
DFG Programme
Research Units
International Connection
Switzerland
Partner Organisation
Schweizerischer Nationalfonds (SNF)
