Exploring new frontiers in quantum information and open quantum systems using superconducting flux quantum bits

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The field of "artificial atoms" has grown tremendously over the past decade. Artificial atoms are small (nanometers to micrometers size) systems formed of superconductors. These systems behave quantum mechanically, similarly to atoms, however, their properties can be changed by design. Artificial atoms are interesting from a fundamental point of view, due to their quantum properties and the way in which they interact with their environment. Moreover, artificial atoms have become the main candidates for the implementation of quantum bits (or qubits), the building blocks of a powerful quantum computer. The proposed research program will have several thrusts, combining fundamental and applied research on superconducting artificial atoms. One unifying aspect of the proposed research is the use of one type of superconducting artificial atom - the so called flux qubit. We will build on recent developments of flux qubits with improved preservation of quantum information, or quantum coherence. The first direction we will explore is the development of improved quantum computing architectures. Quantum logic gates with flux qubits can benefit from the qubit energy level structure, which enables fast quantum gates. The increased speed, in combination with long coherence times, have the potential to reduce the errors of quantum logic gates, essential for quantum computing implementation. The second research direction will be the investigation of a new regime for atom-electromagnetic field strong interactions. A single atom coupled to the electromagnetic field is a paradigmatic open quantum system and this research will explore a new territory in this area. Finally, we will pursue experimental tests of relativistic quantum information. This is a new area of research that aims to include relativistic effects in the framework of quantum information. A fundamental prediction in this field is the ability to generate quantum correlations between two atoms at large distances. Artificial atoms are uniquely suited for these tests, due to their strong controllable coupling to light. We expect this program to have a significant and broad impact for implementation of quantum technologies and for fundamental research in the areas of quantum information, open quantum systems, and quantum optics. This research will be carried out by graduate and undergraduate students and postdoctoral researchers. These individuals will receive theoretical training in quantum information, superconductivity, and quantum physics and practical training in cryogenics, microwave electronics, microfabrication, and software. These skills will allow them to pursue an academic career or to work in companies focused on superconducting qubits, other areas of quantum information, software, and electronics manufacturing. This program will contribute to maintaining Canada at the forefront of research in quantum science and technologies.