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Two-body loss and sticky collisions in ultracold molecule-atom systems

Objective

"Ultracold bialkali molecules are promising platforms for quantum simulation, computation, and precision tests of fundamental physics. However, their practical application is severely limited by unexpected two-body losses, attributed to ""sticky collisions"" where molecules form long-lived complexes prone to photoexcitation by trapping light. The standard statistical theory for describing these collisions provides an incomplete picture: while it explains loss rates in some systems, complex lifetimes measured in molecule-atom collisions exceed predictions by several orders of magnitude. Furthermore, a major class of experiments designed to mitigate these losses often yields inconclusive ""null results"" when no loss suppression is observed, exposing a critical lack of robust observables and hindering further progress.

This project, ""Two-body loss and sticky collisions in ultracold molecule-atom systems"" (2STICKY), will resolve this impasse through a comprehensive theoretical approach. First, it will perform the first rigorous benchmark of the statistical model against exact quantum scattering calculations. It will then be extended by developing the first ab initio treatment of symmetry-breaking interactions, such as hyperfine couplings, to provide a realistic framework capable of explaining experimental discrepancies. Finally, the project will establish a new theoretical toolkit to extract physical observables from experiments by exploring signatures of quantum chaos, fundamentally changing how data is interpreted.

This work will equip the fellow with a unique interdisciplinary skill set at the intersection of quantum chemistry and ultracold physics, preparing him to establish his own independent research program in the European Research Area."

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Keywords

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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

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.

HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2025-PF

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Coordinator

STICHTING RADBOUD UNIVERSITEIT
Net EU contribution

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.

€ 232 916,16
Address
HOUTLAAN 4
6525 XZ Nijmegen
Netherlands

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Region
Oost-Nederland Gelderland Arnhem/Nijmegen
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

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