Matter-Wave Interferometers

The field of matter-wave interferometry is emerging as a highly-promising interdisciplinary field, at the interface between fundamental science and quantum technologies/photonics/semiconductor European industry. The primary goals of MAWI are to use the exquisite control of ultracold quantum matter to implement guided matter-wave interferometers and to train young researchers in the emerging fields of matter-wave interferometry and quantum sensors based on interferometric schemes. The remit of MAWI is in the area of novel quantum sensing devices, with potential sensitivity enhancement of several orders of magnitude with respect to existing devices. Achieving this goal requires training the next generation of “quantum interferometry researchers” to a broad range of topics from fundamental to applied science, including both experimental developments and modelling, with strong connections to industry and emerging technological trends. Our training network focuses on the combination of optimal preparation of initial ultracold atomic sources and potentials to control and guide the atoms; their combination to build integrated guided atom interferometers for precision measurements, e.g., of rotations and accelerations; and technological advances towards their miniaturisation. The end goal of a fully-integrated cold atom quantum device could become a major commercial tool in the coming decade, complementing, or potentially even hybridising with, parallel developments in the photonics and semiconductor industries. Supported by our state-of-the-art facilities, our complementary expertise and skills, the participation of well-known European companies and a broad range of established external partners, we are poised to make lasting contributions to the scientific and technological developments of integrated matter-wave architectures and to the training of the next generation of research leaders who will propel quantum technologies even beyond our current expectations.