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

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.

Who will benefit from this research?
There are four classes of beneficiaries:
1) high-tech industry;
2) general public (science minded pupils, students, people interested in basic knowledge);
3) PDRAs and Warwick students;
4) other academics in PI's and other research areas.

How will they benefit from this research?
1 class) Superconducting qubits are leading the way in solid state quantum computing architectures with the largest potential for the transfer to industry. Semiconductor microcavities allow the observation of quantum effects at high up to room temperatures, and so the applications to new generation optoelectronic devices such as new light sources, polariton lasers, optical switches, transistors, logic gates, spintronic devices, etc. are widely discussed. Ultra-cold atomic gases are promising systems for precision measurements and high quality sensors with multi-disciplinary applications. Research towards understanding and controlling these systems brings potential applications closer to life, and in particular the research on polaritonic devices is directly part of the project.
2 class) The project is concerned with fundamental problems of non-equilibrium quantum physics, which have been identified in the UK as one of the main Physics Grand Challenges. Thus, if successful, this research will make its way to text-books, will broaden our general understanding of fundamental properties of matter, and be part of this exciting knowledge, which inspire imagination of new generation of students and encourage them to take physics degrees.
3 class) PDRAs positions, funded by this project, and PhD studentship committed by the Department, will provide excellent career development and training opportunities by combining analytical and numerical research with the direct interaction with experiment. The project will have a direct educational impact on Warwick undergraduates (final year project students) by exposing them to challenging theoretical problems, relevant to the state-of-the-art experiments. It will motivate them to continue onto research degrees and teach them skills relevant also in other type of employment (analysing data, comparing predictions of theoretical models to experimental results).
4 class) Outcomes of this research will benefit other researchers (both experimentalists and theorists) working in the areas of circuit QED, polariton BEC and superfluidity, solid-state condensation and coherence, superconductivity, ultra-cold atomic gases, on control problems in quantum mechanics, on general non-equilibrium field theory techniques, quantum optics, astrophysics, and nuclear physics (project or cold fermions). They will benefit from the results, and from the methods and numerical codes developed.

What will be done to ensure they have the opportunity to benefit from this research?
We will disseminate results at international conferences and will keep PI's web-pages updated with talks, preprints, publications and summaries. We will design separate pages with popular science explanations suitable for general public and students, and with technical details aimed at other academics and industry. We will also undertake some school outreach activities and will organise a multi-disciplinary workshop devoted to phenomena far from equilibrium in different quantum systems. If any commercially relevant outcomes appear as a result of this research, we will initiate discussions with Warwick Ventures, the University's technology transfer office, in order to properly exploit it. Also, the PI proposes to dedicate time to examine some of the possible industrial applications of our results and, in case of commercially relevant outcomes, to establish contact with industry.