Compilation & Circuit Layout Optimisation For Superconducting Quantum Processor

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Oxford Quantum Circuits Limited (OQC), established in June 2017, are developing quantum computing processors based on superconducting circuits. A fundamental business question for OQC is what applications (quantum algorithms) are best suited for their technology, and how to most efficiently realise first generation processors that will be capable of running these applications, and hence generate sales. This project addresses this challenge from two angles; development by Cambridge Quantum Computing Limited (CQC) of a quantum compiler dedicated to the OQC hardware architecture, and prototype development and assessment of circuit layouts with differing connectivity maps. These two directions will be combined with assessment of mapping of quantum algorithms onto the OQC architecture to produce clear direction for OQC R&D in the next phase of its development.Quantum algorithms are typically given in a high level mathematical language, and are not designed with particular hardware architectures in mind. This makes it challenging for OQC and its customers to realise the full potential of the technology. This project seeks to address this problem by demonstrating software that efficiently compiles quantum algorithms onto theOQC architecture. The software module will act as an interface between users and the hardware; enabling the technology to run quantum programs. Using IP developed by CQC will facilitate getting the most out of the available hardware.Understanding how quantum programs are mapped to the architecture will also inform the design decisions for the next generation device built by OQC. The project will demonstrate the feasibility of these decisions by prototyping the key concept in hardware. The new software plus prototyped hardware will demonstrate a step change in the capabilities of the next generation quantum computer built by OQC.