Studying the 2D physics utilising a harmonic synthetic dimension; from topologically robust edge-states to how unique interactions effect vortex

title continued: lattice ground states

My research focuses on a harmonic synthetic dimension which can be implemented in combination
with real space dimensions to realise novel 2D physics. These dimensions are effective tools which
can be used to induce artificial gauges into various different charge neutral platforms, mimicking
effects magnetic fields have on solid state systems, in a highly controllable way. For cold atom
platforms, the always present, internal harmonic states of their confining traps can be coupled to
construct one such synthetic dimension. This specific synthetic dimension has many sites allowing
access to bulk physics and unique long range interactions acting in synthetic space. With the
tunability of the harmonic synthetic dimension we can effectively study interesting 2D physics by
combining it with optical lattices or a free continuous dimension inside the harmonic trap. In the
former case, we take the tight-binding limit essentially constructing a discrete 2D lattice where
we study the vortex lattice ground-states and how the interactions in the harmonic dimension
effect them. The lattice case, in collaboration with ongoing experiment in Birmingham, we experimentally
seek to identify clear topological edge-states in the 2D set-up. The robustness of such
states, guaranteed by topological invariants, are particularly of interest for long term application
to quantum technologies - justifying the plethora of interest in such states in the field of quantum
simulation. Overall, the combination of tunability of cold atom platforms and synthetic dimensions
allows us to access a broad set of physical phenomena which we study theoretically in tandem with
experiment.

1. Our primary impact will be by supplying the UK knowledge economy with skilled multidisciplinary researchers, equipped with the technical and transferable skills to establish the UK as pre-eminent in topology-based future technologies. The training they receive will make them proficient in the demands of the translation of academic science (with a broad background in condensed matter physics, materials science and applied electromagnetics) to industry, with direct experience from internship and industry engagement days. With their exposure to both theoretical research (including modelling and big data-driven problems) and experimental practice, our graduates will be ideally equipped to tackle research challenges of the future and communicate to a broad audience, ready to lead teams made up of diverse specialised components. The potential impact of our researchers will be enhanced by a broad programme of transferable skills, focusing on innovation, entrepreneurship and responsible research. Beneficiaries here will include the students themselves as they embark on future careers intertwining academic research and industry, as well as the other sectors listed below.

2. The research undertaken by students in the CDT will have impact on the future direction of topological science. Related disciplines, including physics, materials science, mathematics, and information technology will benefit from the cross-disciplinary fertilisation it will enable. The CDT will not only provide an interface between research in physical sciences and engineering, but also provide a route for academia to interact effectively with industry. This will help organise researchers from different disciplines to collaborate around the needs of future technology to design materials based on topological properties.

3. Our research will enable industries to set the direction of topological research around the needs of commercial research and development, leading to wealth generation for the UK, and to influence the mindset of the next generation of future technologists. Specifically, topological design has the promise to revolutionise devices and materials relevant to communications, microwave and terahertz technologies, optical information processing, manufacturing, and cybersecurity. Through partnership with organisations from the wider knowledge sector, we will deepen the relationship between academic research and disciplines including IP law and scientific software development.

4. Our CDT will also have impact on the wider academic community. New specialist courses and training in transferable skills will be developed utilising cutting-edge multimedia technologies. Our international research collaborators, including prominent global laboratories, will benefit from placements and research visits of the CDT students. Our interdisciplinary research, combining the needs of academia and industry will be an exemplar of the effectiveness of the CDT model on an international stage.

5. The wider community will benefit from our organised public engagement activities. These will include direct interaction activities, such as demonstrating at the Birmingham Thinktank Science Centre, the Royal Society Summer Exhibition, local schools and community centres.