2024 Users Committee meeting

One magnet to rule them all

Presenter: Kamil Uğurbil, University of Minnesota

Title: Harnessing High Magnetic Fields towards meeting a Central Challenge of the 21st Century: Understanding Human Brain Function

Abstract: Increasingly, neuropsychiatric disorders dominate the health care burden in all industrialized societies. While these diseases are largely thought to be associated with brain circuits, ability to study these circuits towards developing a mechanistic understanding of resulting perturbations in brain function remains elusive. In humans, the dominant method employed for tackling this problem is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) because it is non-invasive and provides the capability to detect brain anatomy, activity, and connectivity. It is the central technology employed for human studies in major initiatives such as the Human Connectome Project (HCP) and the BRAIN Initiative in the USA, and similar initiatives in Europe, China, and Japan. Efforts based on MRI achieved transformative changes in our view of the human brain. Nevertheless, achievements to date fall far short of the sensitivity and resolutions needed to cover the vast spatial scales over which the brain operates, going from single neurons to coordinated activity over billions of neurons spanning large parts of the brain, if not the entire brain, to achieve perception and behavior. MRI methods based on high magnetic fields have played an indispensable role in the achievements realized to date and demonstrate that further increases in magnetic fields are indispensable for future advances necessary to study the human brain in health and disease.

Presenter: Yuhu Zhai, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory

Title: Fusion superconducting magnet technology - Synergies, Unique Challenges & R&D gaps

Abstract: Although fusion applications have a unique set of HTS conductor requirements, there are many potential areas that could benefit from similar R&D on high-field solenoids. There are numerous synergies between accelerator, high-field research, and fusion magnets. R&D capabilities that can be leveraged for synergies need to be identified so that best strategies can be developed to maximize the use of existing test facilities within the US Magnet Development Program. The emergence of practical HTS conductors is allowing the development of higher-field solenoids across these applications. There are, however, also fusion-specific magnet challenges such as the fast ramp rate needed for initiating plasma operation in a tokamak. I will briefly review the synergies, HTS challenges and R&D gaps for large scale fusion applications.

Presenter: Mike Kesler, Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Title: Thermomagnetic Processing: Enhancing Properties and Process Efficiency

Abstract: Thermomagnetic processing is a potential transformational technology for US manufacturing that enables microstructures and material properties unattainable by other industrial processing methods. A key benefit of superconducting magnet technologies is the minimal amount of energy needed to adapt to an industrial process, because once at field, the magnet goes into ‘persistent mode’ and requires no energy to maintain field other than recondensing the cryogens. The current state of superconducting magnet technology allows for a tradeoff between field strength and bore size. For example, Cryomagnetics (Oak Ridge, TN) recently built a shielded 20” bore, 2 T magnet with an 18” axially uniform static field. This magnet is large enough to house an induction heating insert for processing commercial scale steel and aluminum components. This is the largest magnet Cryomagnetics has fabricated. Similarly, ORNL houses three large bore (2x5”, 8”) superconducting magnets all capable of 9 T and housing induction furnaces capable of reaching temperatures up to 2000C in various of environments, including, air, Ar, N2, H2, He, ammonia, and vacuum. The 8” bore magnet is a first of its kind industrial prototype which can process small steel components. It’s an excellent demonstration but limited to smaller components. Much larger bores are needed to expand significantly into the steel and aluminum sectors where thermomagnetic processing could have a significant impact on part throughput and GHG emissions. The current state-of-the-art, technical challenges, and potential impact will be discussed.

Presenter: Aaron Chou, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory

Title: Giganto magnet(s) needed for dark matter axion searches

Abstract: The axion model was originally proposed to explain the longest standing problem in fundamental physics – the vanishing of the neutron electric dipole moment. Conveniently, it also provided a compelling cosmological origin story for the mysterious dark matter that holds galaxies together. Searches for the axion rely on the T- and I-violating topological magnetoelectric effect, a 3-wave mixing interaction in which axion waves can convert into electromagnetic waves in the presence of large magnetic fields. The amplitude of the dark matter wave is so small that extremely large volume, high field magnets are needed to create a scattering cross-section sufficiently large to produce tiny but nonvanishing signals detectable only with modern quantum sensor technologies. A comprehensive search for axion dark matter over the approximately 9 orders of magnitude in possible axion masses would require a new magnet facility operating multiple experiments using magnets at the 9-20 Tesla scale to enable a sufficiently strong interaction, and with bore size as large as possible, preferably at the meter scale to present a large area scattering target.

Presenter: David B. Tanner, University of Florida

Title: A path to the future for axion haloscopes: Really strong magnets

Abstract:The Axion Dark Matter eXperiment (ADMX) is conducting a search for axions in the dark-matter halo of our Galaxy. The power emitted from the ADMX cavity is proportional to B2V, where B is the strength of the magnetic field threading the cavity and V the cavity volume. ADMX, with a 7.4 T magnet of volume 125 liters, is probing the most theoretically promising models for dark matter axions, receiving ~100 yW power, which near-quantum-limited detectors can detect in 10—100 sec integration times. The search has set limits in the 2.6 to 4.1 microeV range and continues to scan towards higher frequencies. As frequency increases, the cavity volume, whose scale is the cube of the wavelength, must decrease. To enable adequate sensitivity at higher frequencies, ADMX needs a stronger magnet. This magnet would be smaller in volume but higher in field; B2V is the factor to maintain. Using high-temperature superconductors, a field of 40 T in a volume of about 8 liters could be a goal. Compared to the present ADMX magnet and cavity, the square of the magnetic field increases by more than 25 and the volume is decreased by a factor of 16. The power emitted would be in the 120 yW range. Using single, 2-cavity, and 4-cavity arrays, the detector would be able to tune 7 to 25 microeV. The practical details of such a magnet will be discussed.

Presenter: Diktys Stratakis, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory

Title: Magnet needs towards a 10 TeV Muon Collider

Abstract: A multi-TeV Muon Collider has the unique potential to provide both precision measurements and the highest energy reach in one machine that cannot be paralleled by any currently available technology. The renewed interest for a Muon Collider has motivated a thorough analysis of the accelerator technology required for this collider option at the energy frontier. Magnets, both normal and superconducting, are among the crucial technologies throughout the accelerator complex, from production, through acceleration and collision. In this talk we will provide an overview of the magnet system needs and their specifications for a 10 TeV center-of-mass collider. We will also describe the basic technology options considered, and the plan for design and development activities. Key areas wherein the US can provide critical contributions to the newly formed international muon collider collaboration will be discussed as well.

Quantum Information Science and Devices

Presenter: Vivien Zapf, Scientist at NHMFL, LANL, and deputy director of the DOE Quantum Science Center

Title: High fields for Quantum Information Science

Abstract: The vast effort of scaling quantum computers towards eventually hoped-for sizes and fidelities may require an approach based on topology, in order to robustly protect quantum information. I will give an overview of the DOE-funded Quantum Science Center, and its efforts towards fault-tolerant topological quantum computing. I will highlight how high-magnetic field work elucidates the phase diagrams and properties of topological spin liquid candidates such as honeycomb-based Kitaev materials. A prediction is that in the presence of non-Kitaev terms the Kitaev phase will still appear where the ordering is suppressed at high magnetic fields. I will discuss our obtained phase diagrams and physical properties in high magnetic fields and the role of electric polarization in probing symmetry-breaking of magnetic order, disordered phases and phase transitions. To highlight today's practical uses of quantum computers for science, I will briefly talk about Ising chain magnets like Ca3Co2O6. Here we see beautiful agreement between experiments and simulations on D-wave quantum computers. This material's out of equilibrium magnetization vs field steps presents a 30 year puzzle that can now be elucidated with open quantum simulations and compared to experiments in different magnetic field sweep rates.

Presenter: Xiao-Xiao Zhang, Department of Physics, University of Florida

Title: Magneto-optics, optoelectronics, and optomechanics in 2D materials under a high magnetic field

Abstract: The light-matter interactions can reveal crucial information on quantum material properties, including optically-excited quasiparticles, non-equilibrium carrier dynamics, electron-phonon coupling, and phase transitions. Photons can further manipulate material properties and induce phase transitions. Having full access to optics-based spectroscopy and techniques under a high magnetic field can be challenging due to the restriction of the magnetic bore space, but it is important for material characterization and implementation of quantum sensing. In this talk, I will talk about several works that make use of free-space optical access in magnetic cryostats. I will show how a strong magnetic field can be used to manipulate and study the spin-dependent exciton states in 2D semiconductors through optical spectroscopy, followed by the demonstration of chiral light emitters based on 2D magnetic heterostructures. Finally, I will discuss our investigation of 2D magnetic mechanical resonators and the coupling between spin dynamics and mechanical motion through laser interferometry.

Presenter: Ali Bangura, MagLab DC-Field/CMS

Title: Quantum Limit Lab – with 25T+ superconducting magnets

Abstract: Since its inception, the NHMFL DC-Field Facility has relied on superconducting (SC) magnets to enhance the utility and efficiency of its flagship resistive magnets. These SC magnets also offer an additional advantage by providing a relatively low-noise experimental environment where lower electron temperatures can be achieved, enabling experiments and unlocking new physics insights that would be impractical or impossible with resistive magnet technology. This talk will present a vision for the next phase of the NHMFL: the establishment of the Quantum Limit Lab & a purpose-built, low-noise, high-field laboratory. This facility will house a suite of 25T+ superconducting magnets, leveraging the latest in high-temperature superconductor (HTS) technology developed in collaboration with NHMFL’s Applied Superconductivity Center and an industrial partner. This generational leap in magnetic field strength coupled with a building which will be designed to best exploit these new magnets, will unlock unprecedented experimental capabilities, democratize access to high fields, and serve as a central hub for quantum science initiatives at NHMFL and local academic institutions. The Quantum Limit Lab will enhance the User Program, foster interdisciplinary research, and support education in quantum science and technology. Furthermore, this effort will catalyze the broader application of HTS technology across multiple fields—ranging from quantum science and fusion energy to particle physics experiments—aligned with national priorities and federal funding initiatives.

Presenter: Stergios Piligkos, Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Denmark

Title: Multifrequency EPR studies of Lanthanide Coordination Complexes for Quantum Technologies

Abstract: Multifrequency EPR studies allowed us to show that molecular Lanthanide-based coordination complexes hold potential for use as physical supports for the implementation of single- and entangled-qubit quantum gates in Quantum Information Technology devices. [1-4] Multifrequency EPR studies are in particular useful in probing the fundamental mechanisms that induce decoherence in these systems. Furthermore, we investigate the dependence of the phase memory time, T_m, on excitation frequency/resonance field and show that there is an optimum intermediate frequency where Tm is maximized. The above general concepts will be illustrated in the case of Gd(trensal) by magnetic resonance experiments on oriented single-crystals allowing to determine its energy spectrum and study the coherent magnetisation dynamics of its ⁸S_7/2 ground term where the vanishing angular orbital momentum results in decoherence suppression. [4]

[1] K. S. Pedersen et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc.,2016, 138, 5801-5804.

[2] R. Hussain et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2018, 140, 9814-9818.

[3] B. Bode et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2023, 145, 2877-2883.

[4] R. Hussain et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2022, 144, 17597-17603

Presenter: Jun Zhu, Department of Physics, Penn State University

Title: Opportunities for non-Abelian anyons in bilayer graphene

Abstract: Even-denominator and other types of unconventional fractional quantum Hall (FQH) states are predicted to host non-Abelian excitations essential for topological quantum computing. Bernal-stacked bilayer graphene (BLG) has emerged to be a promising platform to explore these fundamental phenomena, owing to high sample quality and multi-degrees of freedom. In this talk, I’ll discuss some of the recent progress we made in uncovering the rich physics of the FQH effect in BLG. We observed particle-hole asymmetric even-denominator states on the N=1 Landau level of BLG and accompanying high-order Levin-Halperin states that point to Pfaffian order at some filling factors and anti-Pfaffian at others. We show that the valley isospin in BLG behaves like an SU(2) spin and supports two-component FQH states with controlled valley isospin polarizations. Remarkably, BLG also supports hetero-orbital two-component FQH states at the coincidence of |+0> and |-1> LLs, which were not seen in other 2D systems. Finally I will briefly discuss the work of ours and others in pursuing the fractional charge and exchange statistics in graphene devices, towards the goal of probing and manipulating non-Abelian anyons.

Presenter: Rich Haley, Physics Department, Lancaster University, UK

Title: The European Microkelvin Platform: Reflections on user access to the “Lab without Walls”

Abstract: The European Microkelvin Platform (EMP), established in 2014, is a consortium of 17 partners in the academic, technical and industrial sectors with capacity and expertise in ultralow temperature physics. For five years up to 2023 the EU Horizon 2020 infrastructures programme funded training and user access to the facilities of the eight university-based partners, effectively opening up a “laboratory without walls” with distributed capabilities including nanofabrication, quantum device characterisation, sub-mK environments, and high B/T measurement. Doors were opened to both scientific and technological users, and projects ranged from curiosity-driven discovery to the development of practical applications and commercial products. As PI at one of the access-giving sites and Innovation Manager for the EMP consortium I will reflect on progress made, lessons learned and future prospects.

November 4 - Last day to register for the event

(Note that these dates are final, and no further extensions will be possible)

November 4 - Last day to book a room using the group rate

(Note that these dates are final, and no further extensions will be possible)

November 19^th – User Workshop

November 19^th evening till November 21^st – User Committee meeting

December 6th – Last day to submit original receipts for reimbursement (Only UC members and workshop presenters).

Meeting Registration Fee

• Workshop Only Registration $125.00
• Meeting Only Registrationn $250.00
• Meeting & Workshop Bundle $275.00

Registration closed

November 19^th – J. Wayne Reitz Student Union, Pugh Hall

J. Wayne Reitz Student Union - 686 Museum Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611

Pugh Hall – 296 Buckman Dr, Gainesville, FL 32611

November 20^th – McKnight Brain Institute, HPNP, and surrounding buildings

McKnight Brain Institute – 1149 Newell Dr, Gainesville, FL 32610

HPNP – 1225 Center Dr, Gainesville, FL 32610

Microkelvin Laboratory – 1819 Stadium Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611

Harrell Medical Education Building – 1104 Newell Dr, Gainesville, FL 32610

Communicore Building – 1249 Center Dr, Gainesville, FL 32610

November 21^st – Conference room at the Hyatt Place

Hyatt Place Downtown Gainesville – 212 SE 1st St, Gainesville, FL 32601

Hyatt Place, Gainesville Downtown

Address: 212 SE 1st St, Gainesville, FL 32601

Hotel Reservations

Make a Reservation. The link will direct you to the main page; once you have selected the reservation dates the group rate discount will be automatically applied.

The link will remain active until November 4^th, after which the group rate will be unavailable.

All User Committee (UC) members and User workshop presenters will be reimbursed for their expenses attending the UC meeting and user workshop by receiving a paper check after all receipts have been submitted and processed.

Prior to the meeting:

If you have never been reimbursed from the NHMFL, Tallahassee FL, you need to be added to FSU's system as a guest traveler. For that, please email: travel@magnet.fsu.edu, and our Travel Team will assist you.

If you need assistance with travel arrangements, or have questions about reimbursement and allowability, please email: travel@magnet.fsu.edu.

Airfare:

• Please purchase your airfare ticket or use the travel agency (see below).
• Please submit a full detailed flight itinerary showing the passenger's name, total amount paid, form of payment, ticket number, destinations, date, time, and class of fare.
• The receipt should also show proof of Payment. We will only reimburse for main cabin economy class, non-refundable tickets. Should you upgrade for better airfare seat, the upgrade fee will either need to be shown on the receipt or you will need to provide a comparison taken at the time of purchase. This extra charge is not reimbursable.
• Checked baggage will need a receipt.
• Travelers should take the most direct route. Any deviations from either the most direct route or travel dates must have a comparison attached for reimbursement. Travelers won't be reimbursed for the difference in price due to these deviations.

Travel Agency:

• Collegiate Travel Planners info: For changes to existing reservations or agent assistance, please call 888-862-2947/ 402-252-4745 OR email cua@ctptravelservices.com during normal business hours (Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 6:00 pm ET)
• For Online Booking Support, please contact Helpdesk at 1-877-208-1396 OR email na.online@travelctm.com (Monday-Friday: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm CT)

Your Travel Team phone numbers will pass through to the after-hours service, outside of normal business hours.

Car rental:

Rental car must be booked under the state contracted rate. For assistance, email travel@magnet.fsu.edu

Please note: We will provide a shuttle service between the hotel and event venues as needed.

After the meeting:

The information below provides the details about travel reimbursement policies and procedures for the State of Florida.

When your travel has been completed, please collect your original receipts, scan them, and submit original receipts for reimbursement on this link within two weeks.

Submit original receipts for reimbursement for 2024 UC Meeting

Allowable expenses not requiring original receipts but if you have a receipt, please include it:

• TAXI FARES under $30 per occasion.
• PARKING CHARGES under $30 per occasion.
• MEALS not provided by the Event (reimbursed at FL state-mandated rate: Breakfast: $6, Lunch: $11, Dinner: $19)

Allowable expenses requiring original receipts or other documentation:

• TAXI FARES over $30 per occasion; please indicate any tips paid (limited to 20% of the fare)
• PARKING CHARGES over $30 per occasion.
• RENTAL CAR (Avis/Budget/Hertz/Enterprise/National) of compact size (no additional insurance) and fuel receipts. View Florida State University Vehicle Rental Matrix document.
• HOTEL - itemized receipt showing the actual amount paid, or $0 balance due. Method of payment must accompany that; meals, drinks, and other extra expenses from a hotel are not reimbursable.

Visa information for travel to the U.S.

We will provide a shuttle service between the hotel and event venues as needed. Parking on campus at UF is limited, so this is the recommended transportation for those staying at the hotel.

On the 19^th and 20^th, there will be a short (~0.25 miles) walk between some locations; please let us know if this will be a challenge for you and we will arrange alternative transportation.

Valet parking is free at the Hyatt Place for those staying overnight. If you are not staying at the hotel but will be there for the meeting on the 21^st, there will be a $10 valet fee, for which we will reimburse you.

Boarding Schedule:

• Morning of November 19th (Hotel to Reitz) Board at 8:40
• Afternoon of November 19th (Hotel to Pugh Hall) Board at 5:35
• Evening of November 19th (Pugh Hall to hotel) Board at 8:10
• Morning of November 20th (Hotel to HPNP) Board at 7:45
• Evening of November 20th (HPNP to hotel) Board at 7:40

Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) offers convenient access upon arrival, though direct flights may be limited. Jacksonville (JAX) and Orlando (MCO) airports, both approximately 90 minutes by car from Gainesville, provide more direct flight options. Travelers should be aware of tolls on the route from Orlando to Gainesville, which are not costly but should be anticipated.

Parking at the Reitz Union

The Reitz Union has a parking garage located on the south face of the building, under the UF Bookstore & Welcome Center (highlighted in pink). Garage 5 (also pink) also has a section for visitors, although you will need to be sure that the spot you parked in is marked for visitors.

These garages have an $8.00 daily fee which you will pay at the garage (and for which speakers and UC members will be reimbursed). These are the only parking spaces on campus that do not require a parking pass.

Note that these spaces—especially in the Reitz Union Welcome Center garage—are limited, so you may wish to arrive early to ensure that you get a spot.

UF Health Shands Visitor Garages

UF Health Shands also has three garages on Archer Road that are open to visitors (highlighted in pink below), with a fee of $20 upon exit. To preserve parking space for Shands faculty, staff, and patients, we ask that you avoid parking in these garages if you are able. Note that UF staff and students are prohibited from parking at these garages.

Further parking information is available on the UF Transportation and Parking Services website. You can also view a full parking map here.

The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory is dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, diverse, and equitable atmosphere for everyone visiting or using the educational and research facilities. All participants, attendees, vendors, staff, volunteers, and all other stakeholders are required to conduct themselves in a professional manner that is welcoming to all participants and free from any form of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. Participants will treat each other with respect and consideration to create a collegial, inclusive, and professional environment. At any time during this meeting, if any concerns or issues arise, please reach out to any of the organizers.

The MagLab is funded by the National Science Foundation and State of Florida and operated by Florida State University, the University of Florida, and Los Alamos National Laboratory.

The Florida State University is An Equal Opportunity/Access/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled & Veteran Employer. View FSU's Equal Opportunity Statement.

The University of Florida has Core Values that include Community, Freedom & Civility, and Inclusion, https://www.ufl.edu/about/core-values/, which are expected for all stakeholders and visitors, and is an equal opportunity institution, https://hr.ufl.edu/homepage/, where compliance reporting is available in several ways, https://titleix.ufl.edu/.

Los Alamos National Laboratory believes diversity fuels the innovative, agile, and principled workforce that is essential to solving problems of global importance. LANL is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. View LANL's Inclusion and Diversity Resources.