Professor Steven H. Simon

---

In two dimensional topological phases of matter, processes depend
on gross topology rather than detailed geometry. Thinking in 2+1
dimensions, particle world lines can be interpreted as knots or
links, and the amplitude for certain processes becomes a topological
invariant of that link. While sounding rather exotic, we believe
that such phases of matter not only exist, but have actually been
observed in quantum Hall experiments, and could provide a uniquely
practical route to building a quantum computer. Possibilities
have also been proposed for creating similar physics in systems
ranging from superfluid helium to strontium ruthenate to
semiconductor-superconductor junctions to quantum wires to spin
systems to cold atoms.

---

Rudolf Peierls Centre for Theoretical Physics, Oxford
Seminarraum Theoretische Physik
Contact: not specified