Thermalization of open quantum many-body systems

The study of thermalization in open quantum systems is a fundamental topic in modern quantum physics, with implications for quant m information, condensed matter, and statistical mechanics.
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the dynamics of open quantum systems, focusing on how interactions with the environment drive systems toward thermal equilibrium. We will explore key concepts such as quantum master equations, decoherence, and the role of dissipation in quantum evolution. Understanding quantum dissipative evolutions, modelled by local Lindbladians, is key to controlling this noise and enhancing the coherence of quantum memories. Recent advancements in dissipative state engineering, which leverage these evolutions to stabilize quantum states against noise, have shown promise in experimental results. Additionally, rapid decoherence can aid in preparing relevant phases of matter and estimating algorithm runtimes.

In these lectures, we will investigate thermalization in open quantum systems governed by Lindbladians, focusing on the speed of convergence to thermal equilibrium. We will derive conditions for rapid mixing and briefly review how to utilize these findings to develop efficient algorithms to prepare Gibbs states.

Full Schedule: Monday, May 12th, 14.00 - 16.00

Wednesday, May 14th, 10:00 - 12:00

Thursday, May 15th, 14:00 - 16:00