Quantum foundations is a field of physics that illuminates new facets and predictions of quantum theory and provides deeper insights into the nature of reality that quantum theory is silent about. Discoveries in this area include the violation of Bell’s inequality, the origins of quantum information theory, and that quantum physics is contextual in the sense that measurements of quantum observables cannot simply be thought of as revealing pre-existing values.
These discoveries have profound impacts on our understanding of the physical world and challenge many of our beliefs about the nature of the science. For example, do physical properties exist as real entities, or are they contingent on observation? Many fundamental questions remain, such as the role of the observer, the ontological status of the quantum state, and the existence of nonlocal influences.
Our interdisciplinary team of theoretical physicists, experimental physicists and philosophers will apply the methods of our respective disciplines to more deeply understand the nature of reality through a series of integrated work packages. Three research themes will be explored: (1) The Nature of the Quantum State, (2) Past and Future Boundary Conditions, and (3) Agency in Quantum Observers. Each theme has contributions planned for theory, experiment, and philosophy.
This research will bring together three different research streams in order to create the SoCal Quantum Foundations Hub. This Hub will focus on key topics in quantum foundations research and serve as the primary center of excellence in the United States for the field. Topics in quantum foundations, as well as our discoveries and insights will also be taught to the wider scientific community and public through regular seminars posted to our YouTube channel, annual conferences, as well as public lectures that will be given by our team members.
