Structured light in waveguide-based quantum simulators

Waveguide arrays and photonic crystals have long proven their potential as quantum simulators—devices that allow us to study quantum systems in a controllable way and provide insights into complex condensed matter effects using light-based model systems. Traditionally, optical quantum simulation has been limited to single-mode waveguides, utilizing only the ground mode. However, incorporating higher modes and orbital angular momentum can access many more degrees of freedom, essential for creating artificial gauge fields for light. In contrast to hard-wired gauge fields in samples where the waveguide trajectory is modulated, mode selection can be done externally with the help of a spatial light modulator and leads to switchable artificial fields. Moreover, electrons have degrees of freedom, like orbital angular momentum, that are crucial for some condensed matter effects that so far cannot be accurately mimicked by single-mode waveguide systems. I will discuss our research in waveguide arrays, fabricated by 3D micro-printing. Our quest involves incorporating higher modes and orbital angular momentum into these systems to introduce a novel dimension to quantum simulation.