Condensed matter theory and quantum technologies
Modern Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics studies quantum matter-radiation systems in “extreme” regimes, which are reached with miniaturization and/or when interactions become “ultrastrong”. For these systems, physics is dominated by peculiar properties, such as coherence or topology.
They are natural or “artificial” physical systems (such as quantum computers) which reveal mysterious aspects of Nature such as quantum entanglement. The impact in Theoretical Physics and Computer Science is both at the foundamental level and to foreseen groundbreaking applications collected under the umbrella of Quantum Technologies.
Research at UniCT develops along four lines described below. It is part of large strategic projects, from the EU Flagship on su “Quantum Technologies”, to the “National Quantum Science and Technology Institute” (NQSTI) in which UniCT is the leader institution for “Education and Outreach”, to the National Center for “High-performance computing and Quantum Computing”.
Both the Master degree in Physics, and the PhD in Physics at DFA-UniCT offer courses in Quantum Technologies and Condensed Matter, with the possibility of internships and international academic and industrial synergies.
Starting from the Academic Year 2024/25, a 2nd level University Master’s Degree in “Quantum Science and Technology” has been established.
Nonlinear quantum dynamics of artificial atoms
Staff: G. Falci, A. Ridolfo, E. Paladino, F. M. D. Pellegrino, L. Giannelli, R. Grimaudo
PhD: G. Anfuso, D. Fasone, A. Nicosia.
We study the nonlinear dynamics of coherent radiation-matter systems, in particular “artificial” solid-state systems (superconductors, semiconductors, impurities). The physics explores quantum optics in the solid state where totally new aspects emerge related to the different energy scales, the non-perturbative character of the interactions and the possibility of controlling their design. These physical systems are the elective hardware for quantum information.
Projects: NQSTI-Spoke 1-A1.1, EU Quantera SiUCS.
Open Quantum Systems, Control and Optimization
Staff: E. Paladino, G. Falci, A. Ridolfo, L. Giannelli, G. Chiriacò
Post-doc: N. Macrì
PhD: G. Chiatto, A. Verga
The theory of open systems, starting from the modern formulation of Quantum Mechanics, studies composite, bi- and multi-partite systems. Their physics differs in a unique and fundamental way from that of physical systems described by Classical Mechanics intervening in fundamental questions such as the emergence of the classical world (decoherence), macroscopic irreversibility, the entanglement of quantum phases of matter and radiation, and the concept of quantum measurement.
The effectiveness of new “disruptive” quantum technologies for computation, communication and sensing requires strategies to limit decoherence. In this regard, we study in particular the effect of non-Markov environments, which are the main source of noise in solid-state quantum systems, and the dynamics of open multistate systems controlled by time-dependent classical fields.
Projects: NQSTI-Spoke 1-A1.4, ICSC – Spoke 10-T3.1.
Few- and many-body electronic systems and topological matter
Staff: F. M. D. Pellegrino, E. Paladino, G. Falci, G. Chiriacò
Post-doc: E. Martello, F. Bonasera
PhD: V. Varrica, M. Parisi
In solid-state nanosystems, miniaturization and strong electronic interactions determine a new physics where quantum coherence and topological properties are crucial. They are one of the elective platforms for the development of quantum hardware. In this perspective, we study superconducting and circuit-QED architectures, superconductor-graphene and superconductor-ferromagnet hybrid systems, analyzing their spectral properties and quantum transport. In particular, we study the effect of the presence of impurity noise (1/f noise), typical of the solid state, and the collective behavior of two-dimensional systems strongly hybridized with photonic fields.
Projects: NQSTI-Spoke 5-A5.2.
Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Technologies
Staff: L. Giannelli, G. Falci, E. Paladino
PhD: S. Mukherjee
The integration of artificial intelligence methods with quantum technologies allows to significantly accelerate their development. In particular, we use Machine Learning algorithms to optimize the control and characterization of quantum devices, to study and limit the effect of decoherence, as well as to identify and exploit new quantum phenomena. In parallel, we study how quantum properties can enhance AI algorithms.
Projects: NQSTI-Spoke 1-A1.6, ICSC – Spoke 10-T3.1.
