Non-Hermitian physics has emerged as a transformative field, challenging traditional paradigms in quantum mechanics and condensed matter physics. Unlike Hermitian systems constrained by real eigenvalues and unitary dynamics, non-Hermitian systems exhibit complex eigenvalues, exceptional points, PT-symmetry breaking, and novel topological phases. These phenomena enable unprecedented control over wave dynamics and spectral properties, with applications spanning photonics, metamaterials, quantum optics, and energy transfer.

Recent breakthroughs highlight the interplay of gain, loss, and interference in tailoring non-Hermitian systems. PT-symmetric systems, for instance, achieve real spectra despite non-Hermiticity through balanced gain-loss engineering. Exceptional points—degeneracies of eigenvalues and eigenvectors—offer frameworks for enhanced sensing, topological transitions, and non-unitary dynamics.

This special topic seeks cutting-edge contributions on non-Hermitian topological insulators, skin effects, quantum sensing, and nonlinear-non-Hermitian interactions, alongside advances in photonic/atomic systems where synthetic gain-loss mechanisms unlock exotic functionalities.

We invite reviews (≥15 pages), perspectives, and original research to map the field’s theoretical and experimental frontiers. Publication fees are waived, and all articles will be open access.

Sincerely,
Peng Xue (Beijing Computational Science Research Center ), E-mail: bgnep.eux@gmail.com
Lan Yang (Washington University) , E-mail: yang@seas.wustl.edu
Wu-Ming Liu (Institute of Physics CAS), E-mail: wmliu@iphy.ac.cn