OUR RESEARCH
QBRAIN
Kowalczyk
Barontini
We are developing novel techniques to access the connectivity in the human brain by using optically pumped magnetometers in combination with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our approach provides new capabilities to understand the brain as a network and to investigate brain connectivity in cognition and disorders. This project is in close collaboration with the Neuronal Oscillations Research Group at the Centre for Human Brain Health.
QCHARGE
Barontini
Guarrera
​We are building an apparatus to produce, cool and interrogate highly charged ions of Californium. This will allow us to realise an atomic clock with enhanced sensitivity to variations of the fine structure constant. Our aim is to exploit such an exceptional detector to look for dark matter and dark energy signatures, but also to perform tests of quantum gravity, violations of fundamental laws of physics and grand unification theories. This experiment is part of the QSNET network.
QMIX
Barontini
Deb
We are constructing thermo-machines operating at the genuine quantum level using ultracold atomic mixtures. Our investigation will lead to a better understanding on how to manipulate energy in the quantum regime with substantial impact in quantum computing and quantum information architectures.
QPRINT
Barontini
Deb
Guarrera
We manipulate atomic Bose-Einstein Condensates with dynamic potentials using a digital micromirror device. Our aim is to realize quantum simulators both for low- and high-energy physics. Some example are: the realisation of synthetic dimensions, the observation of an analogue black hole, and the study of quantum turbolence and superfluidity.
QSPINS
Guarrera
We study and manipulate spin systems based on thermal vapours, with long coherence time and high atomic densities. Our research primarily focusses on the development of ultra-sensitive magnetometers, and co-magnetometers that have application in inertial rotation sensing, in the search for Dark Matter, and quantum information science.
QRING
Deb
Barontini
​We study gases of cold atoms in a high-finesse optical ring resonator. For large enough numbers of atoms (10s of thousands to millions), the coupling to the cavity field is both collective and coherent, overwhelming dissipation due to spontaneous emission and finite photon lifetime. In this regime, known as collective strong coupling, the atoms move according to the optical potential, and the optical potential responds to the positions of the atoms, leading to a rich nonlinear dynamics.