Quantum Simulation - Dicke Model

Ultracold atoms coupled to a high-finesse optical cavity can be a versatile tool for quantum simulation of many-body systems. In particular, a theoretical proposal[1] had suggested the use of cavity-assisted Raman transitions to realize an open version of the Dicke model, of fundamental importance in quantum optics. We have implemented this proposal and observed the defining feature of the Dicke model: the quantum phase transition to a super-radiant state.[2] More broadly, the methods demonstrated in this experiment can extended to simulate and study more complex many-body models.

See also the research highlight article:
CQT researchers build tunable simulator of atom-light interactions

Dicke Model with Cavity Assisted Raman Transitions
References:
  1. [1] Dimer, F., Estienne, B., Parkins, A. S., & Carmichael, H. J., Proposed realization of the Dicke-model quantum phase transition in an optical cavity QED system. Physical Review A 75(1), 013804 (2007).
  2. [2] Baden, M.P., Arnold, K.J., Grimsmo, A.L., Parkins, S., Barrett, M.D. Realization of the Dicke Model Using Cavity-Assisted Raman Transitions Physical Review Letters 113(2), 020408 (2014).