Ion trap arrays for scalable quantum computing
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Sussex
Department Name: Physics and Astronomy
Abstract
Quantum mechanics will enable powerful applications due to the emergence of new quantum technologies such as the quantum computer. While such a device will likely provide ground breaking commercial and national security applications due to the existence of powerful algorithms, its existence will revolutionize modern day science by allowing true quantum simulations of systems that may be modeled classically only insufficiently due to an in-principle limitation of current computer technology. Recent progress in experiments with trapped single atomic ions shows that it should be possible to build a quantum computer using this technology. A major challenge is the scaling of already existing technology beyond a token number of quantum bits. This research will address the manipulation of single atoms in complicated arrays as an architecture for a quantum computer and furthermore, will aim to allow for unprecedented motional control of a large number of single atoms inside such arrays. Single atomic ions will be trapped using electric fields, shuttled inside a complicated array of trap electrodes and manipulated using laser beams. We will develop techniques to retain and control atoms during shuttling operations along complicated paths inside the array. Furthermore, we will investigate ways to engineer such arrays using advanced nanofabrication technology.
Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
Winfried Hensinger (Principal Investigator) |
Publications
Lebrun-Gallagher F
(2022)
A scalable helium gas cooling system for trapped-ion applications
in Quantum Science and Technology
Lekitsch B
(2017)
Blueprint for a microwave trapped ion quantum computer.
in Science advances
McLoughlin J
(2011)
Versatile ytterbium ion trap experiment for operation of scalable ion-trap chips with motional heating and transition-frequency measurements
in Physical Review A
Nizamani A
(2010)
Doppler-free Yb spectroscopy with the fluorescence spot technique
in Physical Review A
Nizamani A
(2011)
Optimum electrode configurations for fast ion separation in microfabricated surface ion traps
in Applied Physics B
Orozco-Ruiz M
(2023)
Optimal control with a multidimensional quantum invariant
in Physical Review A
Randall J
(2018)
Generation of high-fidelity quantum control methods for multilevel systems
in Physical Review A
Randall J
(2015)
Efficient preparation and detection of microwave dressed-state qubits and qutrits with trapped ions
in Physical Review A
Description | As part of this project, an ion trap experiment was constructed as a first step towards the practical implementation of quantum technology devices that may revolutionize many areas of science. Single ions were trapped and used as quantum bits. Furthermore, first steps were taken to build scalable ion trap architectures on a microchip to build an ion trap quantum computer. The experiment now serves as a developing ground to implement quantum simulations and quantum computations. Along with step-changing experimental progress, numerous PhD students and undergraduate students have been trained with state-of-the art technology acquiring numerous skills essential for a whole variety of careers. This research project was featured in a BBC documentary along with many other media appearances providing enthusiasm for a new generation of scientists. |
Exploitation Route | This research will likely motivate school students to undertake a career in science. Numerous popular science appearances, along with a BBC documentary and public lectures helped in demonstrating this to a variety of non-academic contexts. This research helped the development of microchips and nanotechnology. A patent for a novel laser was filed as part of the project. Long term impact may include the production of ultrafast quantum computers and other technologies based on quantum science. |
Sectors | Aerospace, Defence and Marine,Creative Economy,Digital/Communication/Information Technologies (including Software),Education,Electronics,Other |
URL | http://www.sussex.ac.uk/physics/iqt |
Description | The findings of this grant form an important ingredient for the realization of practical quantum technologies, such as the realization of a ion trap quantum computer and quantum simulator. Numerous undergraduate and postgraduate students have been trained as part of this grant learning unique skills that are critical for many industry sectors. |
Sector | Aerospace, Defence and Marine,Digital/Communication/Information Technologies (including Software),Electronics,Other |
Impact Types | Cultural,Societal,Economic |
Description | 6 individual exhibits at the 2016 National Quantum Technologies Showcase, November 2, 2016 |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
Results and Impact | National Quantum Technology Exhibit |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
Description | BBC One - South East Today |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | News item reporting one of our breakthroughs |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
Description | BBC Radio 4 Today Programme |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Interview on the Today Programme |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
Description | Coverage in all National Newspapers, such as the Telegraph, Metro, Independent, Daily Mail etc. |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A magazine, newsletter or online publication |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Wide coverage of one of our research breakthroughs in media throughout the world. All major news papers and news agencies covered this breakthrough. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016,2017 |
Description | Interview on BBC Radio 4 Insight Science programme |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Interview due to the impact of my research |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
Description | Interview on BBC World Service News Update |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Coverage of a breakthrough we have made |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
Description | Invited colloquium at the Loughborough University (2 December 2015) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | Illustrated the opportunities of quantum technologies |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
Description | Invited colloquium at the University of Bristol (15 January 2015) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | Illustrated the opportunities of quantum technologies |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
Description | Invited colloquium at the University of Siegen (7 January 2016) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | Illustrated the opportunities of quantum technologies |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
Description | Invited colloquium at the University of Ulm (30 November 2015) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | Illustrated the opportunities of quantum technology research |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
Description | Invited public lecture at Loughborough University, Qubitter, 5/12/2015 |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
Results and Impact | Physics at the pub event. Event raised awareness and interest in quantum technologies |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
Description | Invited public lecture at the Cheltenham Science Festival on Friday June 5, 2015 |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Talk at the Cheltenham Science festival, 'Can we build a quantum computer'. Talk sparked lots of discussion and interest and lots of questions. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
Description | Invited talk at American Express Europe (24 September 2015) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
Results and Impact | Illustration of the potential opportunities of quantum technologies to industry |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
Description | Invited talk at GCHQ, Cheltenham (5 June 2015) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | Description of the opportunities of quantum technologies for national security. Sparked interest for further engagement. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
Description | London Java Community / Skills Matter Public Lecture, 14 March, 2016 |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Public lecture in London |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
Description | Royal Society Quantum Showcase event 11th November 2015 |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
Results and Impact | Winfried Hensinger showcased exhibits to illustrate ion trapping and interacted with attendees from industry as well as politicians |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
Description | Sky News Tonight With Dermot Murnaghan |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Appearance on the evening news due to the impact of my research |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |