Gravitationally mediated entanglement, coherence & knots

Since 2017, there has been a quest to measure gravity-induced quantum entanglement. Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon where two quantum particles cannot be described separately. It is used in, for example, quantum computers and quantum communication. Measuring quantum entanglement generated by gravity should determine whether gravity is a quantum or classical interaction, one of the most debated questions in modern physics. Moreover, the technological advancements needed to conduct this experiment could benefit various quantum technologies, including enhanced quantum earthquake detectors.

However, significant challenges remain before this experiment can be realised. In her thesis, Martine Schut proposes several ways to improve the experiment's design, making the technology more feasible. Additionally, she examines potential environmental factors that could sabotage the experiment. Quantum experiments are highly sensitive to environmental effects—such as collisions between air particles and the quantum particle—which can render the measurement of quantum phenomena impossible. By analysing these environmental influences, Schut provides a better understanding of how to protect the experiment, ensuring that the desired quantum phenomena can be measured.

Dissertation

If available, you can follow the PhD ceremony via livestream