Condensed Matter Physics, Materials Physics 

In condensed matter physics (CMP), we study the unique and often surprising manifestations of quantum mechanics on the physical properties of matter. Examples of physical systems which can be studied include semiconductor devices, superconductors, ultra-cold atoms,  and nano-magnetic elements. The field covers fundamental and applied physics, and propels modern technologies such as spintronics and photonics. It also encompasses the study of novel materials and their properties. 

Condensed matter research offers students a comprehensive education in all aspects of physics research, theoretical or experimental. The tools we use range from equipment also found in chemistry and engineering labs to mathematical theories also used in particle physics research. From conceiving an experiment or a theoretical model; to designing the experimental setup; to creating the samples you wish to study; to performing the measurements or the calculations and finally writing up the results. Collaborations in CMP are typically small (although CMP groups can be large), giving students a great deal of recognition for their work.

Students will benefit from experience in a quantum physics course when beginning their research with condensed matter groups. Due to the complexity of the problems we solve, and the need for accuracy, we also sometimes use computational solutions.

Quantum Information

Entanglement is one of the distinguishing features between classical and quantum effects. Studying quantum entanglement can lead to a deeper understanding of how information behaves in a quantum system and to new algorithms. The design, use, and coherent control of quantum states is useful for making quantum computers, which work on different principles than classical computers and may solve new problems. By making quantum computation possible, we can ask questions about how to make better algorithms using quantum resources and how to study problems with quantum entanglement.

Research in this area intersects with a broad swath of statistical physics, quantum mechanics, condensed matter, quantum chemistry, and quantum field theory. We often need to use methods of computation to solve problems beyond what is possible mathematically.

The Quantum Information/Algorithms group has more information on research in this field. Graduate students take a blend of courses in the condensed matter and theory tracks as well as courses at the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University offered under the Western Dean’s Agreement.  

Research on quantum computer hardware and software is described in the theoretical condensed matter physics group.

Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) Physics

Broadly defined, AMO physics is the study of the interactions between light and matter.  Research in this field is conducted at all scales from classical macroscopic systems with many interacting particles to the microscopic quantum world of individual atoms and photons.  The methods developed in AMO physics have been paramount in modern technology including the definition of time via the atomic clock and the invention of the laser. Additionally, the field continues to play a pivotal role in the emerging technologies of ultraprecise measurement, quantum computing, measurement of fundamental physics, and the advancement of electron microscopy.

Due to the immense scope of AMO physics, students who pursue it will be exposed to ideas and techniques from the full breadth of physics including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, statistical mechanics, both wave and quantum optics, quantum mechanics and quantum field theory.  

The experimental group explores quantum information protocols such as quantum memory, secure communication, and quantum enhanced imaging. Students in our group work with ultra-high vacuum systems, laser cooled Rubidium atoms, and the construction of high precision laser systems.

In the theory group, AMO systems serve as a testbed in exploring a wide range of topics in quantum physics such as chaos, phase transitions, topology and complexity, along with the connections between them.  Our research relies equally on both analytical and computational tools.