Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz > Faculty 08 > Physics > Physics Research > Research Areas > Atomic & Quantum Physics
Research in the field of quantum physics and quantum information at JGU Mainz deals with controlled quantum systems, such as trapped ions, ultracold atoms, and tailor-made quantum optics systems. The aim is to precisely manipulate and investigate quantum states in order to develop novel approaches for quantum computers, quantum communication, and quantum simulation, as well as to better understand fundamental phenomena of quantum mechanics.
This experiment focuses on the development of scalable quantum information processing, making use of ion qubits, entanglement and segmented ion traps where quantum registers are operated. See also the EU Flagship project
Heat engines are devices which convert thermal energy into mechanical work and typically employ a huge number of particles. We are working on developing such machines using only a single atom as a working agent.
We develop methods for the application of trapped Rydberg ions in quantum information processing experiments (see this review paper). Trapped Rydberg ions feature several important properties that are unique in their combination: Ions in a Paul trap are tightly bound in a harmonic potential, in which their internal and external degrees of freedom can be controlled in a precise fashion (see here). High fidelity state preparation of both internal and motional states of the ions has been demonstrated, and the internal states have been used to store and manipulate qubit information – see our quantum computing project.
We use dysprosium atoms, the element with the strongest magnetic moment in the periodic table, to investigate how light propagation changes in dense, ultracold media. If the distances between atoms are smaller than the wavelength of light, light-induced and magnetic dipole-dipole interactions mainly determine the dynamics. This leads to collective effects such as superradiance and subradiance. Using advanced techniques like controlled atom transport in highly precise optical dipole traps and objective-based microfocusing, we are specifically investigating the transition from individual to cooperative behavior. Our aim is to gain a deeper understanding of light-matter interactions in strongly dipolar systems
Precision spectroscopy reveals the subtle aspects of our universe with outstanding resolution. Using precision laser or microwave spectroscopy, we determine the properties of protons and atomic nuclei, such as thorium ions, and use this information to investigate the symmetries of the Standard Model.
The GravNet project (“A Global Network for the Search for High Frequency Gravitational Waves”) bridges particle physics and gravitational wave physics, aiming to establish a global network of detectors dedicated to searching for high-frequency gravitational waves. This detector network could help address one of the major unresolved questions in modern physics: the nature of dark matter.
In muonic atoms, all electrons are replaced by a single negative muon. Because of its large mass, the muon orbits the atomic nucleus with a 200 times smaller Bohr radius, which leads to a 10 million times larger sensitivity of muonic atom energy levels to nuclear structure, such as the nuclear charge or magnetization radii. We are currently aiming for a precision measurement of the proton magnetic structure within the CREMA/HyperMu project, and for up to ten times more precise charge radii of the lightest nuclei from Lithium to Neon and beyond (QUARTET Collaboration).
TACTICa uses atomic physics methods to investigate thorium isotopes including the metastable low energy nuclear state in 229mTh. The optical ground state transition of isomeric 229Th is the only nuclear transition that can potentially be interrogated using lasers. Controlling this transition opens an interesting window into high-precision tests of the Standard Model and on possible variation of fundamental constants. Thus, TACTICa aims to deploy ion trapping techniques like quantum logic spectroscopy to gain access to the nuclear structure of thorium.
In the field of quantum sensing at JGU Mainz, we develop and utilize highly sensitive measurement methods based on quantum mechanical effects. Techniques such as optically pumped magnetometers, spin spectroscopy, and precise measurements on atoms, molecules, and solids are used to detect minute magnetic fields, rotations, and other physical quantities. These sensors not only enable applications in navigation, materials science, and medicine, but also serve as precision tools for investigating fundamental natural constants, symmetries, and possible new physics.
We develop and conduct experiments with ultracold atoms in microgravity to investigate the performance of quantum technology applications under these unique conditions. Atom interferometers and quantum sensors are implemented in the drop tower in Bremen, on sounding rockets and onboard the International Space Station (ISS). These experiments enable high-precision measurements of fundamental constants, gravitational effects, and inertial forces. This work opens up new perspectives for fundamental research and future satellite-based quantum technologies.
