Quantum simulation proposes to use controllable quantum machines and program them in order to simulate the behavior of a target quantum system. The systems or models investigated this way are typically encountered in condensed matter physics and comprise a large number of interacting particles, making them hard to solve by any classical mean. Quantum simulation thus aims at illustrating, studying and understanding these models in a framework where many parameters are controlled, similar to a computer simulation where parameters can be varied at will.
At EPFL, we are pursuing quantum simulation, both from the experimental point of view to develop new capabilities in various platforms ranging from superconducting circuits to mechanical resonators or ultra-cold atoms, and from the theoretical point of view to propose and benchmark experimental realizations.
News
Quantum matter breakthrough: Tuning density waves
Scientists at EPFL have found a new way to create a crystalline structure called a “density wave” in an atomic gas. The findings can help us better understand the behavior of quantum matter, one of the most complex problems in physics.
Continuous symmetry breaking in a two-dimensional Rydberg array
This paper demonstrates the adiabatic preparation of correlated low-temperature states of both the XY ferromagnet and the XY antiferromagnet. In the ferromagnetic case, we characterize the presence of a long-range XY order, a feature prohibited in the absence of long-range dipolar interaction.
Optomechanics simulates graphene lattices
Scientists at EPFL have overcome the scaling challenges of quantum optomechanical systems and realized the first superconducting circuit optomechanical graphene lattice.