Title: A New Era in Quantum Optics: From Topological Photonics to Correlated Materials

Abstract: Quantum optics investigates the interactions between light and matter at their most fundamental level. In recent years, we have witnessed remarkable advances in controlling individual photons and other excitations, such as spin, charge, excitons, and phonons, in solid-state systems. While this progress has primarily been driven by quantum information science (QIS), its implications extend far beyond QIS. In this talk, I will present two key examples. First, I will review the field of topological photonics, highlighting how optical nonlinearity can give rise to unique bosonic phenomena—without electronic counterparts—such as topological frequency combs. Next, I will discuss how optical control techniques can introduce a radically new approach for preparing, detecting, and manipulating correlated electronic states. This includes new ways of inducing and enhancing magnetism, superconductivity, and topological phases in matter, as well as the prospect of addressing some of the long-standing questions in the field.

A light lunch will be served in the Bowen Atrium at noon.