Center of Excellence for Classical and Quantum Interactions in Nanoworld

The proposed Center of Excellence will experimentally and theoretically investigate the unexplored area between quantum and classical physics of mechanical oscillators, approaching it from both sides.The Center will establish two new experimental activities in the Czech Republic: quantum mechanics with trapped ions and nonlinear mechanics with optically trapped nanoobjects. The Center will merge long-term experimental experiences with optical trapping and manipulation with objects, ultra-precise laser position detection, and high-vacuum techniques accumulated at the Institute of Scientific Instruments of the ASCR with the quantum physics of light and matter know-how of the established research team of Palacký University. The Center will give rise to an integrated team, which can overcome the limitations of the individual partners, and which will find its position among the leaders in this field. This interdisciplinary research will unavoidably lead to fundamental discoveries and technological advancements with broad applicability in both nanotechnology and quantum technology.