Optimised designs for fault-tolerant quantum computers

Quantum systems can store and process quantum information, opening up the prospect of new technologies that outperform conventional supercomputers in many areas. However, quantum information is more fragile than classical binary information, being more susceptible to noise and rapid degradation. To build a reliable device, quantum information must be stored within an abstract quantum codespace that protects it against noise. Quantum computers must also tolerate faults occurring while processing information. In this project, you will develop new techniques for fault-tolerantly storing and processing quantum information, using both analytic and numerical methods to assess their performance. I am looking for an enthusiastic student with a physics, mathematics or computer science degree. The student should also have some of the following desirable skills: a good undergraduate-level understanding of quantum mechanics, a strong mathematical background and/or experience programming and running numerical simulations (e.g. in C). For more information see http://earltcampbell.com/