Friday 27 June, 11.00h, at the Nikhef Colloquium room
Speaker: Andrea Giachero (U. Milano-Bicocca)
Title: “Quantum Sensing Approaches to Fundamental Physics Searches”
Abstract:
Quantum sensing offers a transformative platform for advancing both high-energy and low-energy particle physics, as well as for probing the frontiers of fundamental physics. By leveraging the unique properties of quantum systems—such as coherence, entanglement, and quantum-limited measurements—emerging quantum technologies are pushing the limits of sensitivity and precision in detecting rare and elusive phenomena.
This seminar will present recent developments in three key quantum technologies: superconducting qubits, quantum-limited parametric amplifiers, and single-photon detectors. Superconducting qubits, as controllable quantum two-level systems, serve as sensitive and coherent probes of external fields and hypothetical particles. Parametric amplifiers, such as traveling-wave parametric amplifiers (TWPAs), amplify weak microwave signals with minimal added noise, preserving the fidelity of quantum-limited measurements. Single-photon detectors enable the registration of individual energy quanta, making them ideal for the detection of extremely rare events.
Recent advancements in these technologies not only enhance the capabilities of particle detectors but also open new opportunities for exploring the dark universe, conducting precision tests of symmetries and the Standard Model, and addressing foundational questions in physics.
This colloquium will be hybrid:
