Quantum Beats by Lightwave Acceleration of Broken-Symmetry Supercurrents

Light-induced supercurrents chart a path forward for the electromagnetic design of emergent materials phases and collective modes for quantum engineering applications. In this talk, I will discuss our recent progress towards applying this new tuning knob, enabled by using single- and few-cycle THz pulses, to reveal some distinguishing features of quantum systems: Anderson pseudo-spin precessions and higher harmonics forbidden by equilibrium symmetry, hidden emergent phases that are difficult to be accessed by other tuning methods, Higgs modes in unconventional superconductors. We will also discuss how to extend THz light-driven coherence and subcycle symmetry breaking for quantum control of other complex systems including topological matter, with implications on quantum gate and sensing applications.