The Ilo-Okeke's Group

Quantum Atom Optics @ William and Mary

Welcome To Ilo-Okeke’s Group

Our group investigates the quantum properties of many-body systems—such as linear superposition, interference, and entanglement—through theoretical modeling and analysis. Focusing on neutral atoms and other natural or synthetic quantum systems, the group develops models to explain quantum phenomena and formulates methods to quantify, engineer, and control them, contributing to the advancement of neutral atom-based technologies.

Research Interests

We explore the use of ultracold atomic systems as platforms for encoding, processing, and manipulating quantum information. Their long coherence times and high controllability make them ideal testbeds for implementing quantum gates, memory, and entanglement protocols.
We investigate emergent behavior in interacting quantum systems, with a focus on entanglement dynamics, collective effects, and nonequilibrium phases. Using cold atoms and spin-boson models, we aim to understand how many-body interactions can be leveraged for robust quantum information processing and simulation.
We develop and analyze devices that exploit quantum coherence, entanglement, and measurement back-action to enhance precision and control. This includes high-fidelity quantum sensors, entangling gates, and systems operating in regimes like ultrastrong coupling and non-Markovian environments.
Our work in this area focuses on designing and analyzing secure quantum communication channels and distributed quantum networks. We investigate protocols for entanglement generation, teleportation, and synchronization across scalable architectures involving cold atoms and light-mediated interactions.
We study the fundamental interactions in atomic and molecular systems, particularly their response to coherent light fields. This foundational work supports our broader efforts in quantum control, enabling tunable interactions, state engineering, and precise manipulation of matter-light systems.

Latest Updates

📢 We are hiring a postdoctoral research associateClick here to view the full position description
📝 New Paper: “Neutral Atom Entangling gate” [Read More]
🎓 Now Teaching: PHYS 603 – Mathematical Physics [Lecture Notes]

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🔗 Research | 📖 Teaching | 👥 Team | 📬 Contact