"Quantum simulators based on arrays of Rydberg atoms have achieved impressive results in recent years, particularly in their ability to emulate large systems of interacting spins in two dimensions. However, even at cryogenic temperature, the lifetime of Rydberg atoms is relatively short when their orbital quantum number l is low. Longer quantum simulations could be carried out using Rydberg atoms with maximum l and m quantum numbers, also known as circular Rydberg atoms, with lifetimes of up to a few tens of milliseconds. In order to perform such long simulations, we trap the atoms in "bottle beams" whose operation is based on the ponderomotive force. The subject of this thesis is the implementation of experimental tools to increase the number of atoms trapped in the experimental chamber and their lifetime, in particular by participating in the development of innovative optical and holographic methods, and by transferring the experiment to a cryogenic environment."

Research unit : Laboratoire Kastler-Brossel / Quantum information and quantum optics / Rydberg Atoms team / Collège de France

Advisor : Michel Brune

Keywords : Rydberg atoms, Circular Rydberg states, Quantum simulation, Optical tweezers, Cryogenics

Gautier also contributes to the "Qats" project during his scientific mediation training