Coherent control of time-periodically forced matter waves

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Martin Holthaus
• Subject Area: Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
• Term: from 2009 to 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 144180541

In an effort undertaken jointly by the experimental BEC group in Pisa, Italy, and our Oldenburg theory group, it has recently been shown that “shaking” an optical lattice with frequencies in the low kHz-regime opens up new possibilities for controlling the state of a mesoscopic matter wave of ultracold atoms; among others, the phenomenon of dynamic localization and coherent control of the superfluid-to-Mott insulator transition have been demonstrated. The aim of the present project is to theoretically explore further options for efficient manipulation and control of matter waves in forced optical confinements, to identify the underlying physical mechanisms, and to optimize the respective control protocols. Besides an enhanced understanding of quantum many-body dynamics, the possible outcome includes a significant enlargement of the class of solid-state model systems which can be “simulated” with ultracold atoms. In addition, it appears feasible to realize new forms of quantum many-body dynamics which have not been considered before.The work will again be performed in close interaction with the BEC group in Pisa, so that essential parts of our results can be subjected to experimental tests already during the course of this project.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants