Skip to main content
Go to the home page of the European Commission (opens in new window)
English English
CORDIS - EU research results
CORDIS

Quantum information transfer between hole spins and topological states

Project description

Hybrid qubits to overcome key hurdles to realising a universal quantum computer

The essence of a universal quantum computer is that it combines the full power of a classical computer with that of a quantum computer, enabling simulation of physics and all operations of a classical computer. The spins of electrons embedded in a quantum dot or topological particles in semiconductors offer hope for building a universal quantum logic gate that supports all possible operations at the quantum mechanical level. However, both present challenges. The EU-funded QUIST project aims to unite both methods to overcome hurdles to building a large-scale quantum computer. The ultimate aim is to build a powerful platform where complex systems can be created, simulated, and computed to advance general understanding of physics.

Objective

The promise of universal quantum computation stems from the remarkable behaviour of quantum states and the challenge is to gain control over their fragile nature. In topological quantum computation, information can be encoded nonlocally on Majorana states to provide inherent protection against noise, but operation is restricted to the trivial Clifford group. Spins in quantum dots do provide universal logic, but interactions are short-ranged. I propose to study the question whether these platforms can be united to overcome their limitations as a path toward large-scale quantum computation.

The grand goal of this project is, therefore, to coherently transfer quantum information between spin and topological qubits. Our quantum material of choice is germanium, which can exhibit strong spin-orbit coupling, can provide long quantum coherence for single spins, and can make ohmic contacts to superconductors for hybrid superconductor-semiconductor systems. We will use two-dimensional germanium hetero structures and fabricate superconducting quantum dot devices. Qubits defined on the spin states of single holes will be electrically driven using the spin-orbit interaction and coupled through the exchange interaction. On linear chains of quantum dots we will pursue topological superconductivity, which we will consequently integrate in the spin qubit platform. We will then study their interaction to demonstrate controllable transfer of quantum information between hole spin and Majorana states.

This research is presently at a fundamental stage and is thereby bound to produce exciting results where new physics may arise. The choice of the materials platform and its compatibility with semiconductor manufacturing promises for a successful adoption as building block for future quantum technology. Our long-term dream is to create a powerful platform where complex and emerging systems can be created, simulated, and computed to advance our general understanding of physics.

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.

You need to log in or register to use this function

Keywords

Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)

Programme(s)

Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.

Topic(s)

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

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.

ERC-STG - Starting Grant

See all projects funded under this funding scheme

Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) ERC-2019-STG

See all projects funded under this call

Host institution

TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITEIT DELFT
Net EU contribution

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.

€ 1 873 285,00
Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 1 873 285,00

Beneficiaries (1)

My booklet 0 0