JILA Auditorium

Abstract: Large-scale quantum computers will require error correction in order to reliably perform computations. However, the hardware overhead for error correction remains dauntingly large, with each logical qubit potentially requiring thousands of physical qubits for reliable operation. One promising approach to reducing the overheads of error correction is to tailor quantum error correcting codes to the dominant noise in the qubit hardware.

Abstract: In 1974, Stephen Hawking argued that black holes destroy information, counter to a fundamental principle in quantum mechanics, calling into question how general relativity and quantum mechanics could ever be unified. Ever since then physicists have wrestled with this question.

Abstract: One of the most remarkable discoveries in quantum physics is that long-range entangled qubits can give rise to emergent gauge fields and collective excitations exhibiting generalized ('anyonic') exchange statistics. Despite the importance of such 'topological' states for quantum information processing, they are extremely challenging to find in materials. In this talk, we explore how novel 'bottom-up' quantum devices---built atom by atom, qubit by qubit---challenge this status quo.

Abstract: This talk is motivated by the question: why do we put so much effort and investment into quantum computing? A short answer is that we expect quantum advantages for practical problems. To achieve this goal, it is essential to reexamine existing experiments and propose new protocols for future quantum advantage experiments.

Abstract: Simulating strongly interacting quantum systems is a difficult task: as a prominent example, solving the fundamental equations of the quantum chromodynamics theory of quarks and gluons requires non-perturbative approaches based on computationally-expensive Monte Carlo simulations. The need for alternative solutions that do not rely on Monte Carlo methods has recently motivated an increasing interest in the possible applications of quantum simulation and computation.

Abstract: Black holes have not just become laboratories for astronomers, but also present some of the deepest unsolved problems in theoretical physics. During the past decade surprising connections have been made between ideas from quantum information and gravitational physics. In this talk I will explain several aspects of these connections. In particular, we will see that by treating a black hole as a quantum computer, we can understand various properties of the black hole interior.