Relativistic localisation of Unruh-DeWitt detectors

In this project, we study the Unruh-DeWitt (UDW) model, which features a two-level system (an “atom”) coupled to a quantum field. In a previous publication, the UDW model was extended to include a relativistic centre of mass, which was introduced via a first- and second-quantised treatment of the atom’s dynamics. However, an issue with this model is that the wave function describing the atom spreads out over time. In the UDW model, one conventionally requires the atom to remain bound within a finite region of spacetime. In previous works, Tales Rick Perche—a student of Prof. Eduardo Martin-Martinez—has investigated a separate UDW model, where the atom remains localised to finite regions of spacetime. In joint discussion, Tales has proposed a means by which these two models can be combined. For this project, we will synthesise the two models and investigate this extended UDW model in the context of relativistic quantum information. This collaboration will be beneficial to both the University of Waterloo and the University of Queensland, as it will further the study of the atom-light interaction in relativistic quantum mechanics and its applications to relativistic quantum information.

Faculty Supervisor:

Eduardo Martin-Martinez

Student:

Partner:

The University of Queensland (Australia)

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: