Date/Time
Date(s) - 21/10/2026
10:30 am - 11:30 am

Dr. Chong Wang
Research Faculty
Perimeter Institute

Title: Quantum Phases in the Open World

Abstract:

The theory of quantum phases of matter has traditionally focused on isolated systems described by pure quantum states. Yet no quantum system is truly isolated from its environment. This raises fundamental questions: To what extent do familiar notions of quantum phases, symmetry breaking, and topological order survive in an open world? And can the interplay between quantum coherence and environmental noise give rise to entirely new forms of quantum order?
Beyond their fundamental significance, these questions are also highly relevant to modern quantum devices, where coupling to the environment is unavoidable but can be controlled to some extent.
In this colloquium, I will survey recent advances in our understanding of quantum phases in open systems, including a new form of order known as strong-to-weak spontaneous symmetry breaking. I will discuss how this notion helps unify several seemingly distinct topics, including topological phases, quantum memory, and emergent hydrodynamics.