Physics Colloquium - Spring 2024

Speaker:Dr. Rodolfo Montez, Center for Astrophysics, Harvard & Smithsonian

Abstract: TBA

Speaker: TBA

Abstract: TBA

Speaker:  Dr. Antonis Kyprianidis, Indiana University, Bloomington

Abstract: Since Feynman's prediction in 1959 and the first demonstration of logic gates between quantum particles in 1995, quantum computers have come a long way. They promise to accelerate fields like drug development by simulating the behavior of complex molecules or to help scientists understand perplexing material behaviors like high-temperature superconductivity. This talk will motivate research on Quantum Information, present the principles and operation of experimental implementations, and focus on select past demonstrations and research opportunities. These include the experimental observation of the exotic phase of matter dubbed the discrete time crystal and techniques that enable simulation of interacting quantum spins embedded in configurable graphs. The talk will feature an experimental viewpoint, with a focus on analog quantum simulation with ion traps.

Speaker: Yue (Joyce) Jiang,  JILA, University of Colorado Boulder

Abstract: Join me in this talk as I share my research journey in quantum information science, transitioning from cold atoms to superconducting circuits and exploring their harmonious collaboration in advancing quantum science and technology. In the first part, I will discuss the demonstration of a quantum-enhanced sensing technique at microwave frequencies using superconducting circuits to accelerate the search for weak signals arising from physics beyond the Standard Model, with a specific focus on axion dark matter searches. Shifting gears in the second part, we will delve into quantum optics experiments that utilize the nonlinear interaction between the cold atomic ensemble and optical photons, unveiling the fascinating realm of non-Hermitian quantum optics. Wrapping up, we will explore the exciting science that leverages the strengths of both systems, utilizing superconducting-atomic hybrid systems to bridge the gap between quantum information science in microwave and optical frequencies.

Speaker: Thomas Schumann

Abstract: Tightly integrating solid-state electronic devices with biological systems is an important problem for medicine and fundamental neuroscience. The e cacy of deep brain stimulation (DBS) and in vivo brain recording studies with multielectrode arrays (MEAs) both depend on the ability of the devices to achieve e cient electrical coupling with the target tissues. However, mechanical mismatch of solid-state electronics with soft-matter tissues, and the accompanying chronic immune response, is a key barrier to long-term clinical success and achieving high-quality recordings throughout longitudinal neuroscience studies. Here, I discuss how nanoscale physics can be harnessed to surmount this challenge both mechanically and electrically. First, I introduce mesh electronics: macroporous networks of sensing electronics exible enough to be injected into brain tissue via syringe. With a bending sti ness of approximately 0.1 nN-m, mesh electronics have a mechanical softness comparable to a 150-μm-thick slice of brain tissue, allowing for seamless integration with neurons and chronic neuroscience studies on at least a year timescale. Next, I discuss how silicon nanowire  field-effect transistors (Si NW-FETs) have preferential scaling laws compared to conventional recording electrodes and can be incorporated into mesh electronics with a revised microfabrication method and \plug-and-play" interfacing design. Injection in vivo demonstrates the unique spectroscopic features of neural signals captured by Si NW-FETs. The combination of mesh electronics with Si NW-FETs pushes the frontier of brain-machine interfacing towards a future where minimally invasive technology makes even voluntary implantation feasible.