Topological phases in discrete-time quantum walks (C02)

• Subject Area: Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
• Term: from 2016 to 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 277625399

This project experimentally investigates the transport properties of quantum particles in a one-dimensional lattice under the influence of topological order. Especially the theoretically predicted edge states, localized at the boundary between two spatial domains of different topological order parameters, and their topological protection will be explored. For this purpose, a well-controlled model system of laser-cooled atoms trapped in an optical lattice and performing so-called quantum walks will be used to measure topological order parameters as well as the resulting edge states with novel methods. The results will help to understand the physics of protected edge states in crystals and mesoscopic quantum systems.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 185: OSCAR - Open System Control of Atomic and Photonic Matter
• Applicant Institution: Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn
• Project Heads: Dr. Andrea Alberti, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Dieter Meschede