Theory HEP Seminar

Universal dynamics near quantum critical points

William Witczak-Krempa

Université de Montréal

Quantum critical (QC) phase transitions lead to strongly interacting states that usually lack quasiparticle excitations. Many open questions in the field of quantum materials hinge on understanding those complex states. I'll discuss recent progress in the study of important experimental observables near QC points: dynamical response functions, such as the optical conductivity. I�~@~Yll show results stemming from an interdisciplinary approach combining field theory (especially CFT) and quantum Monte Carlo simulations. Experimental predictions will be made for the charge response near superconductor to insulator QC points. [e.g. Lucas, Gazit, Podolsky, W-K, PRL 118, 056601 (2017)]