Universal Spin-Position Coupled Rydberg Interactions

Abstract

Strong interactions between $s$-orbital Rydberg atoms underpin atom-array-based quantum computation and quantum simulation. Typically, the spin dependence of these interactions is negligible and plays no practical role. In this Letter, we uncover that a strong electron-spin-dependent Rydberg interaction can emerge when the principal quantum numbers of the two $s$-orbital atoms differ by a sweet-spot value. This interaction originates from the fine-structure splitting of nearby $p$ orbitals, which endows it with distinct symmetry properties such that the electron spins are coupled to the relative position of the two atoms, featuring a spatially defined anisotropy. We further demonstrate that this interaction admits a universal form, independent of the principal quantum numbers, and highlight its fundamental distinction from conventional magnetic dipolar interactions, establishing it as a new type of native magnetic interaction in nature. Our findings introduce a new element to the Rydberg quantum simulation toolbox. As a concrete application, we propose a native realization of the Kitaev-Heisenberg model, which hosts an unusual stripe phase as a quantum many-body manifestation of spin-space locking.