A physics challenge at the heart of the first and second quantum revolutions

After nearly two decades of intensive effort by both experimental and theoretical communities, we are entering a new era in quantum science.

Groundbreaking experiments with cold atoms have enabled the quantum simulation of model Hamiltonians, allowing us to explore a wide range of collective phenomena, from quantum phase transitions to thermalization and emergent hydrodynamics. Another key advance comes from the remarkable level of control achieved in experiments with light, which has made it possible to probe elementary excitations and induce different phases in quantum materials. Meanwhile, progress in materials science and quantum information has enabled the development of quantum computing, and a new paradigm for information processing is beginning to emerge. We have witnessed the birth of qubits: a novel unit for encoding information. Quantum processors are now available across a variety of platforms and can be accessed through the cloud to test quantum algorithms using quantum circuits. The expectation is that, in the near future, they will outperform classical chips and supercomputers in solving extremely complex problems.

This exciting scenario also raise a number of theoretical challenges. To manipulate and probe increasingly complex systems, we must describe them as many-body systems with non-trivial interactions and account for their time-dependent dynamics. A question of growing interest concerns the energetic cost associated with control and measurement in these quantum systems. Addressing these problems requires new models, as well as analytical and numerical tools to guide the development of quantum technologies. This effort calls for an interdisciplinary approach that considers scalability, controllability, and efficiency.

My research is inspired by these challenges. I currently work at the interface of condensed matter theory, statistical mechanics, and quantum information to help tackle them.