Trapping ultracold atoms close to surfaces and molecule chips

Atoms, atom-optics, and molecules close to current carrying wires that form magnetic guides are promising systems for studying small scale quantum effects and a step toward realizing matter waves in a quantum processor environment. To help accomplish this we have constructed an experimental apparatus dedicated to creating, detecting, and trapping ultracold atoms and molecules close to a semiconductor surface. We achieved milestones along the way, which include characterizing a mixed-species trap close to the surface, implementing a fiber-optic-based in-vacuum atom detection system, and creating, detecting, and magnetically trapping ultracold atoms and molecules on a chip. These experiments are essential in realizing the ability to manipulate quantum matter and are ideal for quantum computing applications.