Project description
A closer look at quantum signatures in gravitational interactions
Does gravity exist in the quantum realm? Can it exist in superposition states, or mediate entanglement? These questions have long challenged modern physics. Advancements in quantum research and technology are helping find answers, but significant challenges remain. The ERC-funded QuHAMP project aims to overcome some of these challenges and enable the observation of quantum signatures in gravitational interactions. To achieve this, the project will develop interacting systems of cold atoms and milligram-scale pendulums, utilising novel techniques that enable key approaches such as controlling atomic ensembles in optical cavities.
Objective
Does gravity obey the laws of quantum mechanics? Can gravitational fields exist in superposition states or mediate entanglement? These questions lie at the frontier of physics and have crucial implications affirmation would constitute a union of the gravitational and quantum realms, while negative results would demand a revision of fundamental physical laws. Only recently have we identified potential paths to entertain experiments to address these questions. Daunting technical challenges nevertheless remain.
The objective of this proposal is to enable the observation of quantum signatures in gravitational interactions by developing interacting systems of cold atoms and milligram-scale pendulums. This objective will be addressed with three concrete goals:
Goal A: Gain unparalleled control over quantum behavior of massive objects by pioneering light-mediated artificial interactions between atoms and milligram-scale masses
Goal B: Observe for the first time the gravitationally driven dynamics of a pair of masses that behave quantum mechanically
Goal C: Demonstrate the basic tenets of entanglement mediated by force fields of macroscopic objects utilizing electrostatic interactions
The key to achieving the objective is to induce unprecedented levels of quantum delocalization for a massive object. The core novelty of this project is to use an atomic ensemble as a quantum regulator of radiation pressure acting on a massive object. With interactions of two copies of such a system, the project will set the stage for gravitationally mediated entanglement archetypal quantum signature. This approach builds on techniques to control atomic ensembles in optical cavities, where the PI has demonstrated world-leading results. Though inherently high risk, this proposal lays out a conceivable path toward shedding light on some of the most fundamental questions in contemporary physics.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
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Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
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Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2022-COG
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
3400 Klosterneuburg
Austria
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