Quantized vortices mediated optimization

James will be working on the interface between condensed matter and complexity theories. In his research, he will analyse the quench dynamics of nonequilibrium systems driven by glassy coupling interactions. Such dynamics are well understood in two-dimensional and three-dimensional systems with ferromagnetic interactions where the topological defects such as point vortices in 2D and vortex rings in 3D drive the transition. Recent experiments on cold atoms and polariton condensates show control of the interactions in sign, intensity and range creating a basis for studying glassy systems of any dimensionality. Understanding the role played by the topological defects in these systems is the key in constructing analogue simulators capable of minimising universal spin Hamiltonians.