Project description
Unveiling hidden quantum states for next-gen computing
Quantum computing holds immense promise, but existing methods face serious challenges. Conventional qubit-based approaches struggle with quantum decoherence, limiting their scalability. Alternative materials with exotic topological properties, such as Majorana fermions, could offer a solution, but their existence remains unproven. A breakthrough in experimental techniques is needed to uncover these elusive quantum states. In this context, the ERC-funded TROPIC project will refine resonant torsion magnetometry, a highly sensitive technique for detecting topological order. Focusing on quantum spin liquids and unconventional superconductors, TROPIC will push the boundaries of materials science. The project paves the way for next-generation materials that could unlock the full potential of quantum computing.
Objective
TROPIC will design new experiments to uncover the topological properties of quantum materials that will revolutionize quantum computing. Conventional approaches that rely on local interactions between qubits suffer from seemingly insurmountable problems, such as controlling quantum decoherence while still achieving a useful number of qubits.
Alternative approaches based on nonlocal topological excitations, such as Majorana fermions, could provide a solution but clear evidence for their existence is missing. TROPIC aims to identify topological signatures of quantum spin liquids and superconductors by revolutionizing a technique—resonant torsion magnetometry—that was recently developed by the PI. Our approach is unique in its extreme sensitivity to materials properties that are notoriously concealed.
This proposal consists of three aims that focus on systems with promising hints of topology: the quantum spin liquid RuCl3 and the spin triplet superconductor UTe2. Each aim requires significant advances that will allow us to access the magnetotropic coefficient—the thermodynamic coefficient associated with magnetic anisotropy—in new classes of materials for the first time (aim 2) while obtaining new information (aim 3).
The aims are summarized as:
1. Refining resonant torsion to identify topological order associated with Majorana fermions in RuCl3.
2. Extending resonant torsion to high magnetic fields to investigate unconventional superconductivity in UTe2.
3. Developing resonant torsion to higher frequencies to search for slow topological excitations.
Recent media articles by quantum computing pioneers have warned that the hype is surpassing the performance. A material revolution is needed to realize the promise of quantum computing. We will develop a new experimental probes that will be applicable to broad classes of topological materials, including small and fragile 2D systems and heterostructures where thermodynamic measurements are needed.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- natural sciences physical sciences theoretical physics particle physics fermions
- natural sciences mathematics pure mathematics topology
- social sciences political sciences political transitions revolutions
- engineering and technology electrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineering electronic engineering computer hardware quantum computers
- natural sciences physical sciences electromagnetism and electronics superconductivity
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
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Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants
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Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2022-STG
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
3400 KLOSTERNEUBURG
Austria
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