q-LIMA: Light–Matter Interactions in Quantum 2D Materials

q-LIMA is a national project, funded under the Italian MUR PRIN 2020 program, aimed at exploring how light can control the quantum properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials such as graphene and transition-metal dichalcogenides.

By integrating these atomically thin materials into optical cavities, the team investigates how strong light–matter coupling can induce collective phenomena — including superradiance and even light-enhanced superconductivity. Using ultrafast spectroscopy, ILAMP researchers observe quantum coherence and non-equilibrium dynamics on femtosecond timescales, revealing how photons reshape electronic interactions in solids.

This interdisciplinary effort, led by the University of Pisa and involving SISSA, CNR, Politecnico di Milano, and ILAMP, aims to engineer quantum materials driven by light, opening paths toward ultrafast, low-energy quantum devices and advancing Italy’s leadership in quantum photonics and materials science.