FRG: Center for Quantum Information Physics

Yale University, New Haven CT

Investigators

Abstract

****NON-TECHNICAL ABSTRACT**** This grant will support the Center for Quantum Information Physics (CQuIP) at Yale University. Research in CQuIP is exploring systems with promise for use in large-scale quantum information processing. The use of quantum effects enables new capabilities such as secure communication without cryptographic keys; exponential speedup of certain computational tasks; etc. However, these advantages can only be fully realized with systems of quantum bits (the counterpart in quantum computing to the bit of information in classical computing) that are much better controlled, and interconnected in much larger networks, than is now possible. This project will address both issues. Experimental studies will advance the state of the art in controlling quantum bits in several systems, including superconducting circuits; individual molecules trapped by lasers or by microelectrodes on a chip; micromechanical cantilevers; and atomic nuclei manipulated using magnetic resonance methods. A key goal of this work is development of improved methods to interconnect such systems to each other, and to the outside world using photons (a particle of light). Microwaves are a form of light that oscillates at a much lower frequency and this project will involve the use of both microwave and optical photons. In support of the experimental work, theoretical research will investigate new ideas for improving both the control and the networking of quantum bits. A major part of the CQuIP effort is the education of young researchers (Ph.D. students, postdoctoral fellows, and undergraduates) by involving them directly in the research. Through participation in this research they will be propeared for future careers in academia, industry, or government laboratories. This project receives support from the Division of Materials Research and the Division of Physics. ****TECHNICAL ABSTRACT**** This grant will support the Center for Quantum Information Physics (CQuIP) at Yale University. Research in CQuIP is exploring, both theoretically and experimentally, the physics of several systems with promise for use in large-scale quantum information processing. The use of quantum effects enables new capabilities such as secure communication without cryptographic keys; exponential speedup of certain computational tasks; etc. However, these advantages can only be fully realized with systems of quantum bits that are much better controlled, and interconnected in much larger networks, than is now possible. This project will address both issues. Further development of quantum bits based on superconducting circuits and trapped polar molecules will advance the fidelity of quantum information storage and processing. The manipulation and transfer of complex quantum states will be demonstrated using both optical and microwave photons, coupled to electrical and/or micromechanical devices. Limitations to control of large quantum networks will be explored using coupled nuclear spins. Finally, schemes will be devised, using the system of polar molecules as qubits, to implement recent ideas for complex many-body topological states for information storage. A major part of the CQuIP effort is the education of young researchers (Ph.D. students, postdoctoral fellows, and undergraduates) by involving them directly in the research. Through participation in this research they will be propeared for future careers in academia, industry, or government laboratories. This project receives support from the Division of Materials Research and the Division of Physics.