Award Abstract #0722116
MRI: Development of Advanced Ultra-low Temperature System for Exploration of Quantum Mechanics at the Macroscale

NSF Org:	PHY Division of Physics
Initial Amendment Date:	August 10, 2007
Latest Amendment Date:	September 17, 2009
Award Number:	0722116
Award Instrument:	Standard Grant
Program Manager:	Kathleen V. McCloud PHY Division of Physics MPS Directorate for Mathematical & Physical Sciences
Start Date:	August 15, 2007
Expires:	July 31, 2010 (Estimated)
Awarded Amount to Date:	$650000
Investigator(s):	Keith Schwab schwab@ccmr.cornell.edu (Principal Investigator)
Sponsor:	Cornell University 373 Pine Tree Road ITHACA, NY 14850 607/255-5014
NSF Program(s):	MAJOR RESEARCH INSTRUMENTATION
Field Application(s):	0000099 Other Applications NEC
Program Reference Code(s):	OTHR, 9134, 1750, 0000
Program Element Code(s):	1189

ABSTRACT

This award supports the development and construction of a highly advanced cryogenic quantum measurement system. The system will be used to study the frontiers and possible boundaries of quantum mechanics, and will serve a wide range of collaborators (experimental and theoretical), as well as being central to the advanced education of students. The experiments which this system will enable with microfabricated, nanomechanical structures will help to resolve fundamental questions of modern physics, especially those concerning the boundary between the Classical and Quantum regimes, and questions regarding the validity of quantum mechanics for large objects. Furthermore, these developments are expected to impact advanced technologies, particularly those requiring ultra-sensitive mechanical detectors and in the realms of quantum information and computation. To enter and probe this exciting realm of physics, an advanced new system is required which combines a nuclear demagnetization refrigerator accessing 1-10mK temperatures with a heavily engineered electronic environment. The proposed system and resulting research activity will also provide an excellent education to the students and researchers.

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