Exploring strongly correlated matter with exotic atoms

Advances in the quantum manipulation of ultracold atomic gases are opening a new frontier in the quest to better understand strongly correlated matter. By exploiting the long-range and anisotropic character of the dipole-dipole interaction, we hope to create novel forms of quantum mesophases, states of quantum soft matter intermediate between canonical states of order and disorder. This poster presents recent advances in the laser cooling and trapping of the most magnetic atom, dysprosium, which should allow investigations of quantum liquid crystals, mesophases thought to exist in, e.g., high T$_c$ cuprate superconductors. In addition, Dy will form the key ingredient in hybrid quantum circuits as well as in novel scanning probes using atom chips.