Recent advancements in quantum technology has enabled us to create a matter-wave interferometer, known as the “Schrödinger Cat state” in a lab. The quest is now to push the limit from the atomic mass scale, and mass of the virus to go all the way to nanoparticle mass such as nanodiamond and nanosilica. The aim will be to create the largest spatial quantum superposition for these masses in a lab. The advantage for pushing the boundary is to test fundamental physics, such as the sheer validity of quantum mechanics for massive objects, and second to test the fundamental nature of spacetime in a lab; Is gravity/spacetime quantum in nature? Creating massive spatial superposition allows us also to test the equivalence theorem in a quantum domain and allows us to test the physics beyond the Standard Model, including the scope to test the cosmic neutrino background. These ideas are based on entangling two neutral quantum masses solely through their gravitational/ beyond the Standard Model interactions, while all other interactions, e.g., electromagnetic (EM) interactions, are mitigated. These experiments require addressing a rich set of challenges: mitigating EM interactions and background noise, creating spatial quantum superpositions of massive objects, and measuring spin correlations to witness entanglement. We must also protect the quantum superpositions from heating, blackbody radiation, acceleration, seismic noise, and gravity-gradient noise. Besides the fundamental questions, these technologies create excellent quantum sensors whose sensitivity goes beyond any current limit for force measurements in a lab. We wish to bring together colleagues from the University of Toronto, the Perimeter Institute, the University of Alberta, the University of Waterloo, the University of Lethbridge, McGill University, the University of British Columbia and others.
We propose a focused, invitation-based workshop that will bring together approximately 20–30 researchers working in quantum gravity, the Standard Model and Physics beyond the Standard Model, quantum information, quantum technologies and related areas of fundamental physics. The primary goal is to identify common scientific themes, foster new collaborations, and explore opportunities for coordinated national research initiatives.
The meeting will serve as a kick-off event for building a stronger Canadian network in fundamental theoretical physics, with particular emphasis on emerging directions where interdisciplinary approaches may lead to significant advances.
Scientific Scope
Topics may include:
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Trapping, levitating, and cooling nanoparticles
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Creating massive and large spatial quantum superpositions
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Quantum decoherence and metrology
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Quantum information approaches to spacetime and gravity
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Foundations of quantum mechanics
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Beyond the Standard Model Physics
Kick-Off Meeting Format
The proposed kick-off meeting would span two days and consist of:
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Overview presentations highlighting major research directions
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Short research talks by participants
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Structured discussion sessions aimed at identifying common themes and opportunities
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Working-group discussions focused on future collaborative projects
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Planning discussions concerning potential funding opportunities