Quantum Simulations with Atoms and Photons | Jean-Philippe Brantut ((EPFL, CH))

Cavity quantum electrodynamics (QED) is one of the most powerful framework to observe and leverage quantum phenomena. While it has been thoroughly studied for simple quantum systems such as two-level systems or harmonic oscillators, it has recently become available for complex, correlated quantum many-body systems. In the last years, we have developed systems combining cavity QED with cold Fermi gases. In such a system, virtual photon exchanges between atoms yield a long-range interaction leading to emergent phenomena. I will describe how it induces charge-density wave ordering, and the deep insights on this transition provided by real-time measurements and high spatial resolution. I will then discuss the interplay of pairing, Pauli blocking and light-matter interactions in this system, the status of our understanding and some open questions. Last, I will outline the perspective open for quantum simulations in this platform, both from the conceptual and technological point of view.