Quanta Research Group

Quantum computers are constructed using completely different building blocks from electronic computers. In our lab, we investigate the possibility of constructing quantum computers with single ions i.e. charged atoms, which can be precisely controlled and manipulated with electromagnetic fields, and laser light. We build computers from single atomic ions, one at a time, held by oscillating electromagnetic fields above the surface of microfabricated chips. These atoms can serve as quantum bits, both for new models of information processing, and as exquisite sensors for observing new physics.

The Research Lab of Electronics (RLE) Quanta Research Group develops tools and technologies for quantum computation. Previous work focused on the development of an NMR quantum computer leading to the experimental demonstration of Shor's factoring algorithm. Current work focuses on implementing a scalable ion trap architecture. The group is approaching the challenge in three ways:

(*) modelling ion trap quantum computers with realistic parameters to assess the fault-tolerance threshold and optimize the layout,
(*) testing and constructing planar traps thatcan move ions through an arbitrary two dimensional layout, and
(*) building an atomic ion trap system capable of performing quantum operations in these planar traps.