Quantum simulation with atoms and photons

Abstract

Quantum simulation, i.e. the use of a fully controlled quantum device to understand the properties of complex many-body systems, is among the most important applications of emergent quantum technologies. Among the platforms available for this task, ultra-cold atoms are the most widespread, thanks to their native ability to represent both Bosons and Fermions, to explore a wide range of geometries using laser-induced potentials, and the possibility to reach the strongly interacting regime. Here, we present the use of cavity quantum electrodynamics together with cold atomic gases to realize novel types of quantum simulations. We review the different ways by which cold atoms can couple with light, and describe their applications to quantum simulations of models involving long range interactions.