Topological Quantum Dynamics: From Doublons to Photonic Edge States

The discovery of topological matter has reshaped condensed matter physics, unlocking exotic phenomena and fueling advances in quantum technologies. In his doctoral thesis, Miguel Bello Gamboa explores quantum dynamics in low-dimensional topological systems, focusing on 1D and 2D lattices that act as topological insulators. Key findings reveal how interactions, periodic driving, and structured environments lead to novel behaviors like long-range doublon transfer and chiral photon bound states, with implications for quantum simulation and information processing.

According to the paper, doublons—bound pairs of fermions in strongly interacting systems—exhibit unique dynamics under periodic drivings. In the SSH-Hubbard model, topological edge states enable direct transfer of doublons across finite chains, a process that can be controlled via ac fields to overcome interaction-induced limitations. The interplay of topology and driving also confines doublon motion to specific sublattices in 2D structures like the Lieb lattice, highlighting the potential for engineered quantum walks.

In the realm of topological quantum optics, quantum emitters coupled to a photonic SSH bath display chiral bound states and unconventional scattering. The topology of the bath dictates emitter interactions, enabling the simulation of exotic spin models with long-range couplings. Experimental platforms such as cold atoms, quantum dots, and photonic crystals offer viable routes to observe these effects, pushing the boundaries of quantum control and many-body physics.

Reference: Bello Gamboa, M. (2020). Quantum dynamics in low-dimensional topological systems. arXiv:2008.02044v2 [cond-mat.mes-hall].