Towards quantum simulation of U(1) LGTs with alkaline-earth-like atoms

Monika Aidelsburger LMU Munich (Germany) ICAP 2022 Thursday, Jul 21, 8:45 AM Towards quantum simulation of U(1) LGTs with alkaline-earth-like atoms Well-controlled synthetic quantum systems, such as ultracold atoms in optical lattices, offer intriguing possibilities to study complex many-body problems in regimes that are beyond reach using state-of-the-art classical computations. The basic idea is to construct and use a well-controlled quantum many-body system in order to study its in- and out-of-equilibrium properties. An important future quest concerns the development of novel experimental techniques that allow us to expand the range of models that can be accessed. Simulating lattice gauge theories is a particularly promising direction, which combines a broad range of research areas including high-energy physics and topological quantum computation. One of the main challenges for quantum simulation of lattice gauge theories is to find resource-efficient implementations of the required local symmetries. Despite the recent experimental progress, there is no clear path towards implementations of lattice gauge theories in extended systems beyond one dimension or with non- Abelian symmetries. Here, I report on the development of a new hybrid optical lattice- tweezer platform that combines local state-dependent control of tunnel couplings with the unique properties of fermionic alkaline-earth-like atoms to realize U(1) lattice gauge theories coupled to matter. Moreover, the SU(N) symmetric interactions of fermionic Yb atoms pave the way towards novel schemes for the realization of more complex non-Abelian symmetries. Our scheme relies on correlated tunneling of fermionic atoms in a state-dependent programmable optical lattice. We have performed ab initio calculations of the lattice gauge theory dynamics, identifying suitable parameter regimes. On the experimental side we have performed measurements of the required laser wavelengths, which is the first step towards building the final lattice setup.