Black hole mergers are known to emit gravitational waves and are not expected to generate anything else. However, describing the physics of merging black hole singularities requires the yet unknown theory of quantum gravity. Thus the mergers can be accompanied by the emission of yet undetected exotic fields. In our paper, just published in Nature Astronomy, we argue that atomic clock networks can be sensitive to exotic fields emitted by LIGO detected mergers. This opens an intriguing possibility for a novel, exotic physics, modality in multi-messenger astronomy.

Paper is available here:  https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-020-01242-7 or without paywall: https://rdcu.be/b9ByS. Abstract is below.

Quantum sensor networks as exotic field telescopes for multi-messenger astronomy

Conner Dailey, Colin Bradley, Derek F. Jackson Kimball, Ibrahim A. Sulai, Szymon Pustelny, Arne Wickenbrock & Andrei Derevianko

Multi-messenger astronomy, the coordinated observation of different classes of signals that originate from the same astrophysical event, provides a wealth of information about astrophysical processes¹. So far, multi-messenger astronomy has correlated signals from known fundamental forces and standard model particles like electromagnetic radiation, neutrinos and gravitational waves. Many of the open questions of modern physics suggest the existence of exotic fields with light quanta (with masses ≪1 eV c⁻²). Quantum sensor networks could be used to search for astrophysical signals that are predicted by theories beyond the standard model that address these questions. Here, we show that networks of precision quantum sensors that, by design, are shielded from or are insensitive to conventional standard model physics signals can be a powerful tool for multi-messenger astronomy. We consider the case in which high-energy astrophysical events produce intense bursts of exotic low-mass fields (ELFs), and we propose a novel model for the potential detection of an ELF signal on the basis of general assumptions. We estimate ELF signal amplitudes, delays, rates and distances of gravitational-wave sources to which global networks of atomic magnetometers and atomic clocks could be sensitive. We find that such precision quantum sensor networks can function as ELF telescopes to detect signals from sources that generate ELF bursts of sufficient intensity.

A black hole merger (left) emits a burst of exotic low-mass fields (ELFs) and gravitational waves. As the ELF burst propagates with the group velocity v_g ≲ c to the detector (right), it lags behind the emitted gravitational waves, which propagate at c. Given that the more energetic ELF components propagate faster, the detected ELF wave packet exhibits a characteristic frequency chirp, depicted by the wave packet shown on the right.

The University of Nevada, Reno, USA invites applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Scholar position with the Department of Physics. The postdoctoral scholar will work in the group of Dr. A. Derevianko.  The primary task will be to carry out next-generation calculations of atomic parity violation. Additional topics of interest include dark matter searches and atomic and nuclear clocks.  Experience with relativistic atomic many-body theory is desired, but not required.  Demonstrated experience in computational physics is required.  Anticipated start date is September 1, 2019. Please apply by sending email to Dr. Derevianko ([email protected]).

Job Description: The University of Nevada, Reno invites applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Scholar position with the Department of Physics to work with the GPS.DM collaboration. The GPS.DM collaboration carries out a search for ultralight dark matter with GPS constellation atomic clock data.

The postdoctoral associate will be primarily responsible for mining archival GPS data and developing statistical analysis. Website of the collaboration: http://www.dereviankogroup.com/gps-dark-matter/ . Applications received by July 10, 2019 will be given full consideration, but the search will remain open until a suitable applicant is found.

Required Qualifications: Ph.D. in Physics or closely related field by the time of appointment.

Preferred Qualifications: Computational skills and demonstrated experience with statistical analysis.

To apply, please visit:
https://nshe.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UNR-external/job/University-of-Nevada-Reno---Main-Campus/Postdoctoral-Scholar_R0116307-1

Required Attachment(s): Attach the following documents to your application.

1) Resume/CV
2) Cover letter
3) You will be required to provide at least two reference letters to be sent by email to Professor Andrei Derevianko at [email protected] .

Contact Information: Professor Andrei Derevianko at [email protected] and Professor Geoffrey Blewitt at [email protected] .

Department Information: For more information about the Department of Physics, please go to https://www.unr.edu/physics .

EEO/AA Women, under-represented groups, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

The Physics Department of The University of Nevada, Reno invites applications for a full-time tenure-track position at the rank of assistant professor in the area of experimental atomic, molecular, and optical physics. The successful candidate is expected to be an effective teacher and to establish a vigorous research program; start-up funds will be provided.

The University of Nevada, Reno is the State of Nevada’s land grant and historic flagship institution of higher education and is one of eight institutions of higher education governed by the Nevada System of Higher Education. With a growing and increasingly diverse enrollment of approximately 20,000 students and a total budget of $500 million, the University provides a comprehensive selection of degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral level. The university has been recognized as a Tier I institution by US News and World Report. Located in the picturesque Truckee Meadows at the base of the Sierra Nevada, the University of Nevada, Reno is just a short distance from the state capitol, the beautiful Lake Tahoe area, and numerous state and national parks.

Required qualifications: Ph.D. in physics or a related field.

Preferred qualifications: Postdoctoral research experience. Evidence of ability and strong commitment to establish a successful research program in atomic, molecular, and optical physics. Evidence of ability and motivation to teach effectively at the undergraduate and graduate level.

Please apply at https://goo.gl/hYsFb2, and please arrange for two or more letters of reference to be sent to Professor Jonathan Weinstein at [email protected]. Applications and letters of reference should be received by February 20th, 2019. The University of Nevada, Reno recognizes that diversity promotes excellence in education and research. We are an inclusive and engaged community and recognize the added value that students, faculty, and staff from different backgrounds bring to the educational experience.