Hyperfine coupled spins with time evolution readout

Introduction

Quantum simulation is a promising strategy for understanding the behaviour of quantum systems that are too complex to be calculated directly. HYPSTER will make crucial steps towards creating a quantum simulator from individual magnetic atoms, addressed by means of a scanning tunnelling microscope. I will engineer atomic structures combining electron and nuclear spins – coupled to each other via hyperfine interaction – and read out their collective quantum coherent evolution in real time.

Coherence Time

The lifetime of any quantum state is limited by its coherence time. While electron spins on a surface suffer from continuous decoherence due to electrons from the substrate, nuclear spins are much better isolated, holding potential for orders of magnitude longer coherence times. By providing controlled access to the real-time dynamics of the nuclear spin, HYPSTER aims to unlock this invaluable potential.

Measurement Procedure

First, expanding upon a unique measurement procedure developed in my group, I will trace the combined time evolution of a nuclear spin coupled to an electron spin, allowing quantum information to be exchanged between the two.

Coupling and Decoupling Spins

Next, I will explore methods to controllably couple and decouple the nuclear and electron spins by rapidly adjusting the local Hamiltonian. This will allow the nuclear spin to evolve by itself, not hindered by external decoherence sources.

Remote Detection

Finally, I will employ dual-frequency electron spin resonance to enable remote detection of spin dynamics, constructing a pathway towards connecting multiple nuclear spins over a distance.

Objectives

The objectives of HYPSTER will provide a toolset that can be readily adopted throughout the blooming field of on-surface spin systems and set the stage for true atomic-scale quantum simulation.