Who are you and what is the topic of your research group?

Hi, my name is Kai Voges, and I am the group leader of the Hybrid Quantum Systems group at the Institute of Quantum Optics at Leibniz University Hannover. In my group, we work on quantum computing and simulation with ultracold atoms and molecules in optical tweezer traps. Our goal is to build a new quantum platform that combines atoms and molecules to make use of the unique advantages of both.

Which research question are you working on?

We want to understand how we can combine the complementary properties of atoms and molecules to create new possibilities for quantum technologies.

What makes this topic special/exciting for you?

Atoms and molecules have very different strengths, and combining them allows us to explore new ways of building quantum systems. Personally, I find it incredibly exciting that we can actually see individual particles in our tweezer traps, move them around, and manipulate them one by one on the quantum level. Being able to work with quantum systems in such a direct and almost tangible way still amazes me every day!

How does your topic help to push the boundaries of what can be measured?

By combining atoms and molecules, we aim to extend the capabilities of quantum systems beyond those of a single platform. For quantum computing, this provides new possibilities for storing and processing quantum information. In quantum simulation, it enables us, for example, to explore models that are difficult or even impossible to realise with existing systems. At the same time, the atoms and molecules we use offer excellent clock transitions across very different frequency ranges, opening new opportunities for precision measurements and tests of fundamental physics.

What is special about participating in the QuantumFrontiers cluster of excellence?

What I find special about QuantumFrontiers is the enormous range of expertise that comes together in one cluster. For our research, this is particularly exciting because hybrid quantum systems naturally connect different fields, from atomic and molecular physics to quantum technologies and precision measurements. Having experts from all these areas close by creates many opportunities to exchange ideas, start new collaborations, and even develop entirely new hybrid quantum systems by bringing together different expertise and technologies.