Prof Vlatko Vedral FInstP

Abstract:

We review canonical experiments on systems that have pushed the boundary between the quantum and classical worlds towards much larger scales, and discuss their unique features that enable quantum coherence to survive. Because the types of systems differ so widely, we use a case by case approach to identifying the different parameters and criteria that capture their behaviour in a quantum mechanical framework. We find it helpful to categorise systems into three broad classes defined by mass, spatio-temporal coherence, and number of particles. The classes are not mutually exclusive and in fact the properties of some systems fit into several classes. We discuss experiments by turn, starting with interference of massive objects like macromolecules and micro-mechanical resonators, followed by self-interference of single particles in complex molecules, before examining the striking advances made with superconducting qubits. Finally, we propose a theoretical basis for quantifying the macroscopic features of a system to lay the ground for a more systematic comparison of the quantum properties in disparate systems.

Abstract:

The tunneling experiment is a key technique for detecting Majorana fermion (MF) in solid state systems. We use Keldysh non-equilibrium Green function method to study two-lead tunneling in superconducting nanowire with Rashba and Dresselhaus spin-orbit couplings. A zero-bias dc conductance peak appears in our setup which signifies the existence of MF and is in accordance with previous experimental results on InSb nanowire. Interestingly, due to the exotic property of MF, there exists a hole transmission channel which makes the currents asymmetric at the left and right leads. The ac current response mediated by MF is also studied here. To discuss the impacts of Coulomb interaction and disorder on the transport property of Majorana nanowire, we use the renormalization group method to study the phase diagram of the wire. It is found that there is a topological phase transition under the interplay of superconductivity and disorder. We find that the Majorana transport is preserved in the superconducting-dominated topological phase and destroyed in the disorder-dominated non-topological insulator phase.