28.03.2022

New Research Unit on long-range interacting quantum systems

Scientists at the University of Tübingen are investigating the fundamentals of novel quantum systems whose constituents interact across long distances - Funding from the German Research Foundation

A new Research Unit established by the German Research Foundation (DFG) at the University of Tübingen will investigate the unusual properties of long-range interacting quantum systems. The project is in basic research, but opens the view to new technologies in sensor and measurement technology. Participants in the DFG research group "Long-range interacting Quantum Spin systems out of equilibrium: Experiment, Theory and Mathematics" (FOR 5413) are scientists from theoretical physics, experimental physics and mathematics at the University of Tübingen as well as a researcher from the Institute for Electronic Structure and Laser in Heraklion, Greece. The Research Unit has an initial term of four years with the option to extend for four additional years. The DFG is funding the first funding period with approximately three million euros. The spokesperson of the Research Unit is Professor Igor Lesanovsky from the Institute for Theoretical Physics.

Quantum systems whose constituents interact via long-range forces are expected to exhibit highly unusual properties, and recent breakthroughs in the manipulation of cold atomic gases have enabled the experimental realisation of such intriguing quantum systems. This opens up new exciting opportunities to control and utilise collective phenomena in quantum matter. In order to make the best possible use of these opportunities, there is a strong need to develop experimental and theoretical methods in a coordinated manner.

This Research Unit addresses important and timely questions concerning many-body quantum systems with long-range interactions. Its ultimate goals are the understanding, realisation and control of complex quantum matter possessing collectively enhanced yet robust properties with applications in emerging quantum technologies, such as metrology and sensing.

To achieve the desired breakthroughs, the Research Unit assembles a team whose complementary expertise spans the broad range of experimental, theoretical and mathematical physics, as well as numerical analysis. Concerted efforts in mathematical and theoretical research will go hand in hand with the experimental research and develop new theoretical approaches, methods, and techniques to advance our understanding of highly correlated many-body quantum matter.

Building on the Center for Quantum Science at the University of Tübingen, the Research Unit will establish a flourishing research environment that brings together an interdisciplinary group of outstanding scientists. Moreover, a close alignment of the research with graduate courses in advanced quantum theory and mathematical physics will maximise synergies and create a unique interdisciplinary science ecosystem for graduate students, postgraduate trainees and experienced researchers.

Igor Lesanovsky/Janna Eberhardt, Public Relations Department

Contact:

Prof. Dr. Igor Lesanovsky
University of Tübingen
Institute for Theoretical Physics
+49 7071 29-76379
igor.lesanovskyspam prevention@uni-tuebingen.de 
https://uni-tuebingen.de/index.php?id=166449