Exploring Long-Range Interacting Fermion Lattice Systems

The realization of the first Bose-Einstein condensates in 1995 followed by the preparation of a degenerate Fermi gas in 1999 with dilute gases of alkaline atoms established a new research area. Especially the superb control over the internal and external degrees of freedom makes those systems ideally suited to realize quantum simulators, an idea brought up by Richard Feynman more than three centuries ago. Quantum simulators allow us to study behaviors that are difficult or impossible to observe directly. In recent years the field expanded in terms of the atomic species used in experiments. Especially atoms with a large magnetic moment such as chromium, erbium and dysprosium provide the possibility to investigate phenomena arising from the long-range, anisotropic dipole-dipole interactions. The aim of this project is to build quantum simulators using magnetic atoms to investigate unusual states of matter, such as superconductivity (when electricity flows without resistance) and topological phases (which have special properties that remain stable even when the material is bent or deformed). By recreating these behaviors in a quantum simulator, we can gain new insights into how these strange phenomena emerge. To achieve our project goals, we will develop and implement new and improved tools for the control and detection of our atoms, specifically of the so-called spin. This atomic property acts like a tiny magnet inside them. We will first develop the needed tools to control this spin in very cold atoms (erbium atoms) that are arranged in a grid of light. Simultaneously we will work on improved methods and protocols to probe the properties of such systems and to reveal unique quantum phenomena like long-range correlations. Once we can control the atoms and their interactions, we will use the quantum simulator to explore new states of matter, such as superconducting and topological phases. These are complex behaviors predicted by theories but rarely observed in experiments. Collaborating with theoretical physicists, we will predict and then observe these unique states in the lab. This project aligns with the goals of the Quantum Austria Initiative Funding Scheme, aiming to enhance quantum simulation capabilities with strongly magnetic ultracold atoms and contribute to the broader field of quantum research and technology.