In a landmark achievement for quantum science, an international research effort anchored by Abu Dhabi’s Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has resulted in the first-ever observation of Shapiro steps in ultracold atoms. The breakthrough, detailed in two ‘back-to-back’ articles in the prestigious journal Science, provides unprecedented real-time insight into quantum mechanics and sets the stage for the development of advanced quantum sensors.
The collaboration saw two experimental teams, one in Florence, Italy and one in Kaiserslautern, Germany, successfully implement a theoretical protocol developed at TII. This work highlights how quantum effects at the microscopic level can be harnessed in large-scale systems, a core concept recognized by the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics.
A New Window Into Quantum Synchronization
The discovery centers on recreating an effect previously seen only in superconducting circuits within a new medium: ultracold atoms. By doing so, scientists can effectively slow down and magnify the inner workings of quantum systems, making previously invisible phenomena observable. This process involves Shapiro steps, which are quantized responses that occur when a system is driven by an external oscillation.
“We’re seeing quantum coherence unfold in a way that has never been directly observed before,” said Dr. Vijay Singh, Senior Researcher at TII’s Quantum Research Center and first author of the theoretical proposal. “This level of control opens powerful new possibilities for quantum technologies and specifically quantum simulation of superconducting circuits in conditions that were not accessible before.”
In the experiments, each oscillation generated a precise number of miniature whirlpools, known as vortex rings, which were responsible for producing the step-like signals that confirmed the breakthrough.
The Dawn of Atomtronics
This achievement significantly advances the emerging field of atomtronics, or atomic electronics, where neutral atoms guided by lasers are used to mimic the function of electrons in traditional circuits. Atomtronic devices promise to deliver ultra-sensitive measurements of gravity, rotation, and magnetic fields, with future applications in autonomous navigation, seismic monitoring, and space exploration.
“Using ultracold atoms is like watching quantum mechanics in slow motion,” said Dr. Giulia del Pace, first author of the Florence experiment. “We finally have a way to observe the fine details of quantum coherence that were previously hidden from view,” added Dr. Erik Bernhart, first author of the Kaiserslautern experiment.
Professor Luigi Amico, Executive Director of Physics at TII’s Quantum Research Center, explained the impact of their work. “We’ve built the first atomtronic AC circuit using neutral atoms instead of electrons. This creates a new class of devices for measuring subtle forces and fields with unprecedented resolution. From quantum compasses to gravity detectors, the real-world applications are significant.”
About Technology Innovation Institute (TII)
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) is the dedicated applied research pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC). TII is a pioneering global research and development center that focuses on applied research and new-age technology capabilities. The Institute has 9 dedicated research centers in advanced materials, autonomous robotics, cryptography, AI and digital science, directed energy, quantum, secure systems, propulsion and space, and renewable and sustainable energy.
Source: Zawya
