New blueprint for exotic quantum states 25.06.2026

Illustration: Leonardo Giacomelli
Researchers led by Francesca Ferlaino and Luca Barbiero have developed a new theoretical model for ultracold magnetic atoms in a one-dimensional quantum structure, revealing seven exotic phases of matter. Most remarkably, one phase combines topological order and superconductivity, with potential applications in quantum computing. They provide a detailed roadmap for realizing and detecting these using existing experimental techniques.