Physics Colloquium with Wei Guo on Quantum fluid systems as platforms for quantum science and engineering
Quantum fluids, such as superfluid helium-4 and atomic Bose-Einstein condensates, are known for their unique quantum mechanical properties, which include superfluidity and quantized vortices. They provide an unparalleled setting for exploring the intricacies of quantum phenomena. Our cryogenics laboratory extensively focuses on both experimental and numerical analyses of fluid dynamics and turbulence in quantum fluids, with particular emphasis on the behavior of quantized vortices in superfluid helium-4. Additionally, we are investigating the practical applications of quantum fluid systems in various fields of quantum science and engineering. In this presentation, I will highlight three pivotal topics: first, the study of quantized vortex dynamics in superfluid helium using advanced flow visualization techniques; second, the use of helium as a target material in the search for WIMP dark matter; and third, the exploration of novel qubit systems comprised of single electrons trapped on the surfaces of liquid helium or solid neon. These studies not only deepen our understanding of quantum fluid systems but also demonstrate the immense potential of quantum fluids in advancing science and technological innovation.
Brief bio: Dr. Wei Guo is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Florida State University and holds associate positions at both the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory and the Department of Physics. He earned his Ph.D. in Physics from Brown University in 2008 and conducted postdoctoral research at Yale University from 2008 to 2012. Dr. Guo joined Florida State University in the summer of 2012. His research spans quantum fluid dynamics, helium-based dark matter search, cryogenic accelerator physics, quantum-fluid-based qubit R&D, and liquid hydrogen aviation. His work has received support from federal agencies such as the NSF, the US Department of Energy, NASA, and the Army Research Office, as well as support from national laboratories and industry partners. Dr. Guo's contributions to research have garnered him several awards, including the JSPS Invitation Fellowship Award, the Moore Foundation Experimental Physics Investigators Award, and the Outstanding Research Accomplishment Award from the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. In 2023, he was elected as a Fellow of the American Physical Society in recognition of his contributions to the quantum fluid research field.
This lecture was made possible by the William C. Ferguson fund.