CAREER: Continuous Measurements of Quantum Dynamical Systems

University Of Oregon Eugene, Eugene OR

Investigators

Abstract

This CAREER project focuses on achieving a better understanding of continuous quantum measurements of the motion of ultracold atoms. The research will characterize continuous quantum measurements in detail through experiments on the free-space dynamics of atoms interacting with classical laser fields. This research direction begins with a relatively simple experiment to study measurement-induced interference in the resonance fluorescence of two atoms. The emergence of an interference pattern in the scattered light is the signature of a quantum measurement of relative position, a dynamical collapse process that counters the dispersive tendencies of the atomic motion. The next goal is to demonstrate a time- and space-resolved measurement of a single atom by imaging light scattered from a probe laser - a realization of a continuous Heisenberg microscope. This will allow a thorough characterization of a continuous measurement process, including studies of the emergence of quantum correlations and classical-like trajectory behavior in the measurement record. A long-term goal of this research plan is to study the feedback control of a single quantum system. The educational component involves outreach to high school teachers and the development of a mad scientist course aimed at non-science majors.