Fundamental aspects of superconducting qubits and related quantum devices

Superconducting quantum devices are microelectronic devices operated in the quantum regime and have proved very successful, they currently underpin a very successful approach to quantum computing through various types of single and multi-qubit devices, as exemplified by Google and IBM among others. Superconducting quantum devices also have applications in quantum limited sensing through many different device designs including for example ordinary SQUIDs, HyQUIDs, single photon emitters and detectors, travelling wave amplifiers and many others. To some extent they may be thought of as artificial engineered atoms on which one may perform any experiment that can be performed on a natural atom, though they are all slightly different rather than identical, and may be redesigned.

The research will focus on several remaining questions that include the interaction of the device operation with the inherent nature of the underlying superconductivity, material choices, interface physics, the sources of decoherence and relaxation and possibly investigations of multi-qubit quantum entanglement. The focus will be on those aspects of fundamental solid-state physics that affect and control device operation, and the development of new devices, rather than device optimisation and operation.

The successful applicant will acquire an in-depth experimental knowledge of quantum electronics and will have access to the world-class “SuperFab” superconducting quantum electronic nanofabrication facility at Royal Holloway for sample fabrication. The project will include device design, nanofabrication, measurement of devices at cryogenic temperatures and in the microwave, data analysis and data interpretation. The student will acquire a deep understanding of superconducting quantum electronics and superconductivity. An important aspect of the project is the flexibility to tune activities to the interests and skills of the student as opportunities arise.

The project would be suitable for a recent graduate with a 1st or II(i) in Physics or a related subject.