The study of strongly correlated electronic systems is central to various complex challenges in modern physics and chemistry, from high-temperature superconductivity to battery design and catalysis. However, simulating many-body fermionic systems is particularly difficult because of their quantum nature, which classical computers cannot accurately model. Quantum simulators promise to overcome these challenges by handling the problem quantum-mechanically. But most quantum computers, that could run such simulations, are based on qubits, which need to implement the fermionic exchange statistic on a software level with significant overhead in circuit depth and qubit numbers limiting quantum simulation of electron problems to much smaller system sizes than comparable simulations of spin systems.

We are developing a Fermionic Quantum Computer that promises to overcome these problems by digitally simulating electrons via the controlled motion and entanglement of fermionic atoms in an optical lattice. These digital gates combine the excellent coherence of atoms in optical lattices with the universality of gate-based time evolution and the full projective readout of quantum microscopes. First tests in this direction report already above 99% fidelity for entanglement gates, coherent motions, and successful local manipulation of tunnelling dynamics.

In this project, you will develop, build and test some of the core components of the first fermionic quantum computer by controlling the motion and entanglement of ultracold 6-Li atoms. You will learn how to cool a gas of atoms to a few Nanokelvin using laser cooling, high-power optical traps, and Feshbach resonance. You will also design two types of optical lattices: A millikelvin-deep lattice for loading atoms from a magneto-optical trap and pinning of atoms during single-atom resolved fluorescence imaging. A second bi-chromatic superlattice will allow to generate arrays of symmetric double wells, which serve as the core processing units for the quantum gates. Close collaboration with international experts will be essential to ensure the stability of this setup, as it directly impacts the experiment's success.

This project demands a high level of commitment to long-term experimental development and a strong interest in quantum many-body systems. As you advance the frontier of quantum technology, you will acquire specialized skills in the lab, from single-atom imaging to the control of high-power lasers, and the application of optimal control techniques. The project is part of the EQOP group at the University of Strathclyde, a collaborative environment dedicated to quantum research.

Further information

EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Applied Quantum Technologies