Shankari Rajagopal

Shankari's research interests span quantum simulation, metrology, and computation. Her primary focus is understanding how to robustly steer quantum systems towards target entangled states useful for precision measurement, quantum simulation of materials, and implementation of quantum optimization algorithms. As an experimental atomic physicist, her work involves building hybrid cold atom experiments that comprise locally interacting Rydberg atom arrays interacting with photonic modes of an optical cavity. These experiments afford exquisite spatiotemporal control over atomic trapping potentials, interatomic interactions, and measurement. Using these ingredients, Shankari works to develop new techniques to control quantum dynamics, feedback on quantum measurements, and explore fundamental properties of quantum systems.

Shankari is passionate about advancing equity and inclusion of historically underrepresented populations within the sciences. She has participated in several American Physical Society (APS) Conferences for Undergraduate Women in Physics, co-chairing one of the 2019 Local Organizing Committees. She has been a part of local climate task forces and DEI committees, focusing on improving graduate student orientation practices and organizing reading groups, and has participated in the APS-IDEA network. She has also planned talks and panels at local high schools and middle schools and participated in elementary school science nights, hoping to encourage early and widespread public enthusiasm for STEM fields.

Research Areas:
Cold atoms, Rydberg atoms, optical cavities, quantum control, non-equilibrium dynamics, quantum simulation, quantum metrology, quantum optimization