Characterization of quantum information devices and equilibration of complex quantum dynamics

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Quantum information science is based on the discovery that quantum mechanical effects in small scale systems can revolutionize information technology, leading, in particular, to quantum computation and quantum communication devices which can vastly outperform their conventional counterparts. Physical devices for quantum information have been realized in areas as diverse as laser-cooled atoms, electro-magnetically controlled electron-nuclear systems in diamond, and superconducting quantum circuits. Dr. Emerson's research develops methods for assessing and improving the performance of quantum information devices, with the long-term goal of making commercially viable quantum information processors a reality. The proposed research will develop efficient protocols for characterizing the performance of quantum devices currently in development. These protocols will consist of tools that enable physicists and engineers to build robust, scalable quantum communication and quantum computing devices by identifying and eliminating unwanted effects that spoil the quantum features of the devices. This research will open the door for the commercial development of quantum-based information technology and will train graduate students with the expertise to exploit these research dividends. Dr. Emerson's research is also concerned with improving our understanding of the specific quantum features that practical quantum devices need to outperform their classical counterparts.