Department of Physics Colloquium, Professor Kyle Leach, Queens University

General Physics Colloquium, Professor Kyle Leach, Queens University

Title:  Probing Fundamental Physics with Radioactive Atoms and Quantum Sensors

Host:  Brad Ramshaw

Abstract:  Precision measurements of radioactive decay can reveal particles and interactions that are otherwise difficult to access. By embedding radioactive atoms directly into superconducting sensors, we can measure the tiny recoil energies left behind when neutrinos or other "invisible" particles are emitted. I will describe how this approach connects nuclear physics, atomic physics, materials science, quantum engineering, and the study of fundamental interactions, using the BeEST and SALER experiments as examples. The talk will include searches for new neutrinos, recent measurements that constrain the quantum localization of neutrino production, and the opportunities created by bringing sensitive superconducting devices together with rare-isotope beams.  I will also discuss future directions that use levitated optomechanics and quantum optics to potentially provide coherent enhancements to these processes.