Condensed Matter Thrust

Coherent control of quantum mechanical states can provide qualitatively new modes of computation and communication. The methods to experimentally manipulate quantum states are well established for isolated atoms and molecules. On the other hand, the field of coherent quantum control in condensed-matter systems remains relatively untouched, yet the ability to coherently manipulate solids is of critical importance for building future quantum information devices. In this thrust, we will develop methods to coherently prepare, manipulate and interrogate quantum states in condensed matter systems using several complementary classes of excitations such as electron spins in solids, excitons in semiconductor quantum dots, vibrational states in molecular crystals, and surface plasmons in metal nanostructures. For coherent manipulation of solids, we will explore the use of scanning probe techniques, ultrafast optical spectroscopies as well as the combination of scanning-probe and optical methods. LANL’s contribution to this emerging field can be significant due to the Laboratory’s established strengths in magnetic and optical scan-probe microscopies, ultrafast spectroscopies, materials science, and condensed-matter theory. Further, the LANL program on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology has fostered the growth of capabilities critical to this thrust, such as nanoscale synthesis and fabrication and advanced nanoscale characterization. The condensed-matter thrust will, therefore, benefit from natural partnerships with the existing Nanoscience program.