CQE and PME Distinguished Quantum Series: Philipp Hauke

Title: Quantum simulation and optimization- New approaches to difficult problems from subatomic physics to computational biophysics 

We are currently witnessing a tantalizing progress in the control over quantum devices, handing us novel microscopic approaches to complex many-particle problems. In this talk, I will first highlight how this leads to rapid progress in the quantum simulation of lattice gauge theories. I will discuss our recent simulations on equilibration and confinement dynamics in optical lattices and superconducting qubits. I will also illustrate salient challenges such as protection of desired symmetries and increase of error resilience.

In a second example, I will illustrate how quantum devices may help us to solve problems from computational biophysics and soft matter, such as finding the dominant reaction pathway of a complex macromolecule or the sampling of polymers. With these examples, I aim at giving a glimpse on the current exciting progress and the fascinating future potential of quantum technologies.

Research Interest: 

• Synthetic quantum systems
• Novel quantum technologies (qu. simulation, qu. computing, qu. annealing, qu. metrology…)
• Strongly-correlated systems, quantum non-equilibrium dynamics

This convening is open to all invitees who are compliant with UChicago vaccination requirements and, because of ongoing health risks, particularly to the unvaccinated, participants are expected to adopt the risk mitigation measures (masking and social distancing, etc.) appropriate to their vaccination status as advised by public health officials or to their individual vulnerabilities as advised by a medical professional. Public convening may not be safe for all and carries a risk for contracting COVID-19, particularly for those unvaccinated. Participants will not know the vaccination status of others and should follow appropriate risk mitigation measures.