Subject
JUAN GONZALO MUGA FRANCISCO
- Electronic mail
- jg.muga@ehu.eus
I worked first on scattering theory and foundations of quantum mechanics, in particular on the formalization of time observables in quantum mechanics. (I am main editor/author of two books in Springer.) The work on scattering theory lead to my expertise on quantum absorbing potentials and dynamics of quantum transients. The work on time evolved towards quantum-optical models for time measurement and to the physics of cold atoms.
Since 2004 I am interested in creating new quantum devices: With A. Ruschhaupt we proposed to realize PT (parity-time) symmetrical optical devices opening a new field. We also proposed an “atom diode”, which is a laser-based device that lets the atoms pass a barrier only one way, like a Maxwell’s demon. Experimental realizations have been performed in several labs, with applications such as cooling and isotope separation (http://www.pointsman.org).
I was elected fellow of the APS in 2009 “For pioneering theoretical work on tunneling time in quantum mechanics and for the development of the concept of the atom diode and its application to cooling of atoms”.
Since 2009 I am mostly working on shortcuts to adiabaticity(STA), a set of techniques to speed up adiabatic processes that I have pioneered. They are instrumental in implementing quantum technologies. STA are also useful beyond quantum mechanics, e.g. in optics or mechanical engineering.