Ultracold quantum gases trapped in magnetic and optical traps are an ideal highly-controllable system for precision measurements and quantum-technological applications. In recent years this has led to the emergence of the field of `atomtronics' loosely associated with the dynamics of ultracold atomic gases in closed `circuit' geometries, aimed at understanding fundamental dynamics in such closed geometries, and how to use them for potential quantum-technological applications. The aim of this project was to use state-of-the-art numerical techniques and models to understand dynamics in a range of atomtronics systems.
Atomtronics-based quantum technologies are gradually emerging as an alternative avenue of precision measurements and sensors, which could e.g. provide distinct devices measuring accelaration (including gravity), or rotation. Such devices, may operate (be more sensitive) in regimes where current devices are not idealy-suited, so they could potentially provide more flexibility and better accuracy than existing/established devices, or alternative measurement schemes, in the decades to come.
The first project was associated with understanding in detail, optimizing and generalizing the atomic analogue of a superconducting quantum interference device, a device used as a quantum sensor (e.g. a magnetometer) The intention was to analyze experiments on such device, and try to optimize their regimes of operation, in close contact to relevant experimental groups. Following completion of that, the intention was to characterize open issues in the cooling and generation of atomtronic transistors, focussing on issues ranging from fundamental understanding of the formation of coherence (or Bose-Einstein condensation) in such systems, to how this can be controlled in actual experimentally-relevant devices. Finally, the intention was to combine such features for the understanding of `transistor-like' devices involving coupled multiple closed ring geometries containing ultracold (coherent) quantum gases.
The aim was to also perform such tasks within secondments to Crete and Paris: the first one kept being delayed due to the COVID situation and labs being closed to external visitors; the second one was meant for later on in the project -- but the Fellow moved on to another post before reaching such time when secondments could be facilitated.
