Hybrid Optical Approach for Quantum Information Applications

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This project aims to improve quantum information processing with optical systems. In it the PI will investigate theoretically a hybrid approach to photonic qbits by combining features of previously studied linear and nonlinear quantum logic gares. New approaches for quantum communication and quantum computation are expected to result from the work. This is important because it will lay the foundation for technologies that can improve national security and economic competitiveness. It will also advance the field of quantum information science. Broader impacts of this project include training of a graduate student in theoretical quantum optics methods and providing research experience for undergraduate students who will become part of the next generation of scientists. Public lectures for non-scientists, and several science outreach activities for high-school students are also part of this project. Quantum information processing with quanta of light (photonic qubits) is a promising direction for new technologies. However, it is challenging to make quantum logic gates with photonic qubits. This award is for a theoretical investigation of a hybrid optical approach that combines the best features of the linear and nonlinear quantum logic gates previously studied. Linear optical techniques, such as postselection, heralding, and feed-forward control will be applied to nonlinear devices to reduce the gate error rates. Although the resulting devices will be probabilistic in nature, the use of nonlinear effects can increase the probability of success for photonic qubit gates. This approach will lead to robust devices with a low error rate and a high probability of success, as needed for further advances in quantum information processing. In addition to quantum logic gates, this team will also investigate hybrid devices that are specifically designed for quantum communications tasks, such as entanglement distribution. As part of this project, this team will also investigate new techniques for probabilistic quantum cloning. This will advance the progress of science by providing a deeper understanding of quantum information processing with photonic qubits.This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.