The understanding of complex electronic systems is central to many research fields in modern physics and chemistry, from high-temperature superconductivity to battery design and energy-efficient catalysts. However, simulating fermionic systems of many particles is exponentially difficult because of their quantum nature, which classical computers cannot accurately model. Quantum simulators promise to overcome these challenges by using a well-controlled quantum system iteself. But most future quantum computers, who could run such simulations, are based on qubits, which need to implement the fermionic exchange statistic on a software level with significant overhead in circuit depth and qubit number. The already now limits the quantum simulation of electron problems to much smaller system sizes than comparable simulations of spin systems .  

We are developing a Fermionic Quantum Computer that promises to overcome these problems by digitally simulating electrons via the controlled motion and entanglement of fermionic atoms in an optical lattice. Our digital gates combine the excellent coherence of atoms in optical lattices with the universality of gate-based time evolution and the single-particle resolved readout of quantum microscopes. First tests in this direction report already above 99.7% fidelity for entanglement gates, coherent motions, and successful local manipulation of tunneling dynamics. 

In this project, you will develop, build and test some of the core components of the first fermionic quantum computer by controlling the motion and entanglement of ultracold 6-Li atoms. You will learn how to cool a gas of atoms to a few Nanokelvin using laser cooling, high-power optical traps, and Feshbach resonance. You will also design two types of optical lattices: A millikelvin-deep lattice for loading atoms from a magneto-optical trap and pinning of atoms during single-atom resolved fluorescence imaging. A second bi-chromatic superlattice will allow to generate arrays of symmetric double wells, which serve as the core processing units for the quantum gates. Close collaboration with international experts will be essential to ensure the success of this project. 

This project demands a high level of commitment to long-term experimental development and a strong interest in quantum many-body systems. As you advance the frontier of quantum technology, you will acquire specialized skills in the lab, from single-atom imaging to the control of high-power lasers, and the application of optimal control techniques. The project is part of the EQOP group at the University of Strathclyde, a collaborative environment dedicated to quantum research.