A research team led by Jeremy Levy from the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Physics and Astronomy has received a five-year, $7.5 million grant to develop a new type of quantum memory for quantum computers. The project is funded by the Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative, supported by the Office of Naval Research.
Quantum computers are machines that store and manipulate information contained in “quantum bits” or qubits. These are systems which can be in two possible states at the same time. Controlling arrays of such qubits can enable faster calculations compared to ordinary computers whose bits can only be in one of two possible states.
“There are many approaches to creating quantum computers, with no approach being a clear winner in the sense that silicon is the ‘winning’ material for ordinary computers,” said Levy, Distinguished Professor of Condensed Matter Physics and Director of the Pittsburgh Quantum Institute.