Rydberg atom arrays are powerful platforms for the quantum simulation of spin models, but the simulation time is limited by the short lifetime of laser-accessible Rydberg states. Circular Rydberg states, with maximum angular momentum, have an extremely long radiative lifetime, providing access to much longer quantum dynamics. Our group is building a quantum simulator based on circular states of strontium, a two-valence-electron atom whose ionic core remains optically active when the atom is in a Rydberg state, allowing optical manipulation directly in the Rydberg states. During the master’s internship, the student will build a new laser system to prepare Rydberg atoms in our new closed-cycle cryostat.