Le Brun-Ricalens, Foni Raphaël Charles (2022) A two-module trapped-ion quantum computer prototype. Doctoral thesis (PhD), University of Sussex.

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Abstract

Quantum information technology has the potential to revolutionise a wide range of research
fields and to have a profound impact on society. Today, work towards a universal quantum
computer is benefiting from recent breakthroughs in quantum hardware engineering.
One of the most promising approaches is based on quantum computing modules that
are networked via ion shuttling. The modules make use of microfabricated electrodes
that create electric fields to confine ensembles of ion qubits. Combining this modular approach
with strong magnetic field gradients and long-wavelength radiation quantum gate
technology can significantly improve system scalability. Nevertheless, the realisation and
simultaneous integration of all the core characteristics of such modules remains an intrinsically
challenging task.
This doctoral thesis investigates novel techniques and components critical to the engineering
of this architecture. A prototype ion trapping system is constructed for the
operation of two microfabricated ion-trap modules, which will enable the execution of key
operations for networked quantum logic, i.e. high-fidelity one- and two-qubit gates, and
shuttling of ion qubits between both modules to realise a matter-based quantum link.
In this scheme, high-fidelity quantum gates require a large magnetic field gradient to
be generated at the ion position. To achieve this, novel current-carrying wire structures
directly embedded within the ion-trap module were developed. These offer a scalable
solution to this challenge. The operation of ion traps at cryogenic temperatures is also
desirable to further enhance quantum gate fidelities. A thermal model of the ion trap
is presented and a cryogenic cooling system capable of meeting the requirements of a
large-scale ion-trap architecture is demonstrated. Finally, the constructed two-module
ion-trap apparatus is presented. This provides a viable set-up for the execution of these
key operations, paving the way towards the realisation of a universal quantum computer.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Schools and Departments:	School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences > Physics and Astronomy
Subjects:	Q Science > QC Physics
Depositing User:	Library Cataloguing
Date Deposited:	14 Dec 2022 13:02
Last Modified:	14 Dec 2022 13:02
URI:	http://sro.sussex.ac.uk/id/eprint/109548

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