Vortex formation in spin-orbit coupled Bose condensates

Using recently developed Raman-beam techniques, artificial spin-orbit coupling can be realized in an ultracold gas. Here, we study the formation of vortices in a BEC subjected to a spatially-dependent spin-orbit coupling that, in some regimes, acts to provide oppositely directed artificial magnetic fields for two different spin states [1,2]. We numerically investigate the formation of these vortices to understand the interplay between trap configuration, spin-orbit coupling parameter, and interactions (both spin-dependent and -independent). Finally, we discuss our progress towards the experimental realization of this system in our laboratory using an ultracold gas of $^{87}$Rb atoms in a new apparatus. [1] C. Wang, et al. Phys. Rev. Lett. 105, 160403 (2010). [2] J. Radi\’c, et al. Phys. Rev. A 84, 063604 (2011).