Dramatic theoretical advances in the field of Quantum Information Sciences over the past seven years have led to increasing pressure for physical realization of true quantum devices that can be operated coherently to provide reversible quantum logic. Such devices are required for implementation of a host of novel schemes for communication and computing that take advantage of quantum mechanical effects. Although enormous strides have been made in developing algorithms, quantum codes, and powerful cryptographic protocols, experimental implementation still poses some very difficult problems. Much basic science must be performed before we can begin to realize truly scalable quantum computers.
We address this challenge both with experimental studies to explore the physics of potential qubit systems, and with theoretical investigations of new approaches designed to minimize decoherence and to provide protocols for robust quantum control and efficient quantum logic.
Our interdisciplinary group of scientists and engineers, drawn from computer science, chemical physics, and solid state physics, jointly explore the development of new types of devices that utilize quantum degrees of freedom in solid-state nanostructures to process information.
We focus on three fundamental issues for qubit implementation: i) quantum state measurement and initialization, ii) decoherence, and iii) entanglement. These issues will be explored for a number of condensed matter qubit candidates. Each potential qubit system holds the possibility for significant long-term scalability, provided that the three fundamental issues can be adequately dealt with.
Our six group members undertake joint theoretical and experimental efforts characterized by multiple collaborations and points of contact between all group projects. Theoretical work focuses on understanding, controlling, and minimizing decoherence. We shall undertake a systematic development of control procedures that maximize both the efficiency and robustness of quantum logic gates. Experimental work will focus on characterizing qubit states employing electronic and nuclear spins in solids, as well as superconducting flux coherences. Novel condensed matter qubit structures will be synthesized using state-of-the-art nanofabrication techniques, and probed using the unique measurement tools available to the group members.
Initial experiments will be aimed at quantum state measurement and initialization, but subsequent goals will involve working to minimize decoherence and to enable controlled quantum logic operations.