Fractional Period Adiabatic Superlattice; and Inspiring Students toward Scientific Computing

Dr Russell Anderson

Department of Physics and Astronomy, Monash University

Optical lattices form a vital substrate for quantum gases, enabling the quantum simulation of iconic condensed matter systems; the realisation of new atomic topological materials; and a new generation of atomic clocks. Generally, the spatial period of an optical lattice is derived from the wave-vector differences between the underlying laser beams (with wavelength λ), forging an apparent lower limit of λ/2 to the lattice period. Here, we propose and demonstrate a flexible new sub-wavelength lattice with period λ/2N built from N resonantly coupled atomic states; an additional coupling field converts the lattice to a tunable N-well lattice with λ/2 periodicity.

Changing tack, I will discuss teaching innovations I have led or co-led at Monash University during the last several years. These include live coding - where I create computer programs on-the-fly during lectures - recognised nationally by an Australian Award for University Teaching Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning.

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