Project description
Silicon–superconducting qubits could make quantum computing more viable and scalable
Physicists are using a growing array of new tools to engineer physical systems on a subatomic scale, to be used as building blocks for the elusive vision of a quantum computer – a device that can address problems not solvable with classical computers. Superconducting circuits, made from superconducting metals and Josephson tunnel junctions, play a big role in processing quantum information, where they can be used as a platform for qubits. The EU-funded SiTe project plans to combine the flexibility of superconducting circuits with the most promising aspects of silicon spin qubits. More specifically, the research team will investigate weak links formed between the semiconductor and the superconductor. Silicon–superconducting qubits could prove to be a scalable platform for future quantum computers.
Objective
The quantum information revolution aims at transforming information technology by engineering quantum systems, i.e. qubits, that can be used for quantum information processing (QIP), which allows to perform computations inaccessible to classical computers. In the quest for such systems, solid-state qubits alongside trapped ions currently are the leading candidates. One of the most advanced solid-state technologies to date is based on superconducting quantum circuits (SQCs), which makes use of Josephson tunnel junctions and their macroscopic quantum coherence between two superconducting islands. Due to recent advances in semiconductor-superconductor hybrid (SSH) devices, novel SSH-based qubit architectures have emerged, demonstrating improved properties compared to conventional SQCs, such as in-situ tunability while not being susceptible to flux noise. These novel SSH qubits make use of the true microscopic particle transport within SSH weak links. The main goal of the project is to unambiguously demonstrate SSH-based qubits as a viable and scalable platform for QIP by combining novel SQCs with advanced silicon-technology. The fellow will develop and characterise SSH weak links solely based on silicon (Si), which have the advantage of being fully CMOS compatible and consisting entirely of crystalline materials. Finally, these Si-based weak links will be implemented in novel SQCs, which will combine the good controllability of SQCs with the unique material quality of Si. This will allow the study of the underlying charge dynamics, giving insight into sources of loss, and offer new possibilities for complex architectures. The successful completion of this project will be a decisive landmark towards understanding and integrating such devices in larger circuits, which will be crucial a step towards a vital roadmap for their application in QIP.
Fields of science
Not validated
Not validated
- engineering and technologymaterials engineeringcrystals
- natural sciencesphysical sciencesquantum physics
- social sciencespolitical sciencespolitical transitionsrevolutions
- engineering and technologyelectrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineeringelectronic engineeringcomputer hardwarequantum computers
- natural scienceschemical sciencesinorganic chemistrymetalloids
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
MSCA-IF-EF-SE - Society and Enterprise panelCoordinator
8803 Rueschlikon
Switzerland