Exploring Quantum Phenomena with Electron and Photon Simulators

In this talk, I will present my group's activities related to analog quantum simulators (AQSs). These systems, which can be either quantum or classical, simulate the behavior of an unknown quantum system. The idea dates back to Richard Feynman's proposal to use a quantum system under complete control to imitate a quantum system of interest. Drawing from a broad spectrum of existing literature on AQS platforms, which range from atomic to photonic and electronic devices, we have advanced our understanding and developed specific platforms. A common feature of all these systems is their synthetic nature, which allows for precise control over the Hamiltonian. During the talk, I will focus on two specific platforms our group has advanced: one based on electrons and the other on photons. We consider the surface state electrons present on noble metals in the former. These electrons are constrained to move within artificial lattice systems created by placing CO molecules on the surface. Using this technique, we have explored various obstructed atomic insulators and lattices with intriguing properties, such as flat bands and semi-Dirac points. Recently, we began examining platforms based on semiconducting substrates exhibiting a lower spreading energy level. The other platform relies on photonic crystals built from photonic systems with a periodically modulated dielectric constant. It is ideal for investigating the properties of lattice systems filled with non-interacting quasi-particles. Based on this platform, we have examined several obstructed and topological photonic systems. I will conclude the talk by discussing future directions we plan to pursue to incorporate many-body effects into our investigation of quantum systems.

Zoom: https://dipc-org.zoom.us/j/97006470731

Youtube: https://youtube.com/live/YvlmetU6hVE