Colin Parker works on quantum simulation and sensing using two atom-based platforms. In the first, laser cooling and trapping is used to cool lithium and cesium atoms to 1 millionth of a degree above absolute zero, at which point they take on quantum properties similar to the electrons that populate semiconductors, magnets, and superconductors. By applying dynamic laser potentials to these atoms, we simulate a variety of conditions relevant to exotic quantum behaviors in those materials. Our second platform uses conventional cryogenic pulse tubes to freeze inert gases such as argon and neon into solid form at about four degrees above absolute zero. In these inert "matrices", we trap rare earth thulium atoms, which possess a unique ground state structure coming from the atomic 'f' orbital. This combination of 'f' orbital physics and inert host lead to surprisingly narrow optical spectra even for ensembles - as narrow as 150 MHz, which is comparable with the best solid-state optical systems. We believe this figure can be reduced further, paving the way for arrays and ensembles of coherent optical centers and record high densities.