Advancements in scalable quantum computing are taking a significant leap forward, promising a future where solid-state-based quantum computers could become a reality. The SPINUS (Solid-state Quantum Computing with Nitrogen-Vacancy Centers) project epitomizes this ambition, positioning itself at the forefront of research into quantum technologies. Following the project’s recent annual progress meeting held in Trento, Italy, the consortium of international partners came together to reflect on their progress and formulate strategic plans for the upcoming phases of their ambitious endeavor.
The SPINUS project operates under the Horizon Europe initiative, a European Union (EU) funding program designed to foster research and innovation. The consortium comprises twelve partners from eight countries, including renowned institutions such as Fraunhofer IAF, the University of Ulm, and the Technical University of Denmark. Over its four-year span, SPINUS has set itself the formidable task of addressing the pressing challenges associated with building scalable quantum computing technologies. The team employs a novel methodology leveraging dipolar interactions between electron spins of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers, to achieve operational solid-state qubits.
This multi-faceted project tackles a host of technical challenges. The pivotal requirement lies in achieving remarkably small distances between NV centers—quantities that measure just tens of nanometers. One major hurdle is the inability to resolve neighboring NV centers optically, which compromises the readout of quantum states. To counter this, SPINUS is innovating novel readout techniques alongside improved synthesis processes for the materials crucial to their studies. Such techniques are vital to harnessing the full potential of quantum computing.
As the project nears the end of its first twelve months, the achievements recorded thus far are noteworthy. During the recent meeting in Trento, the consortium partners shared these milestones, which are not only crucial for the project’s timeline but also delineate their aim of creating a solid-state quantum computer capable of operating with upwards of 10 qubits. Moreover, they aspire to develop a solid-state quantum simulator featuring more than 50 qubits. The collaborative atmosphere at the meeting showcased the importance of transdisciplinary dialogue and shared objectives as the consortium aligns its research towards common goals.
External experts and guest speakers from esteemed institutions such as the University of Trento and the National Research Council of Italy (CNR) participated in the meeting as well. Their contributions underline the importance of extending discussions beyond the core SPINUS consortium, facilitating impactful collaborations that could lead to significant breakthroughs in quantum technologies.
The strides made in various research sectors highlight SPINUS’s genuine commitment to leading innovation in quantum technologies. Researchers from different institutions, including those at FZJ as well as the universities of Ulm and Stuttgart, have made commendable advances in spin control and readout. Their progress is marked by the implementation of controlled phase gates between two NVs and the introduction of nitrogen-spin polarization strategies known as PulsePol techniques. They have also made successful submissions of critical technical deliverables to the European Commission, furthering the project’s strategic objectives.
Material synthesis is another area that has benefitted from significant advancements, with Linköping University playing a pivotal role in coordinating efforts. The growth of high-quality silicon carbide layers, isotopically pure and characterized by high surface smoothness, represents a critical leap forward. Similarly, the creation of diamond sandwich structures incorporating thin, isotopically controlled layers has paved the way for further innovations in quantum computing materials.
Integrating the latest technological advancements isn’t limited to material synthesis; researchers at various universities have also implemented optimal control sequences for initializing and programming quantum simulators. Notably, they have succeeded in measuring and controlling large nuclear spin networks that encompass over 40 spins. These breakthroughs include the demonstration of dissipative phase transitions utilizing their quantum simulators, representing a significant highlight of the consortium’s ongoing research.
The pursuit of enhanced color-center-based quantum computers is underway as teams from Hasselt, Ulm, Stuttgart, and Delft continue their rigorous work. They have developed advanced radio-frequency entangling gates, achieving high-fidelity two-qubit gates in quantum registers comprising up to 7 qubits. Alongside this, significant progress has been made in improving electrical readout techniques, undertaken by researchers from various academic institutions such as Hasselt University and the Technical University of Denmark.
In parallel with experimental advancements, improvements have also been achieved in classical simulation methods and quantum algorithms. Coordinated by Wigner RCP, collaborative efforts at FZJ, Stuttgart, Ulm, and Fraunhofer IAF have led to enhanced methodologies for benchmarking quantum computers’ performance and simulating the dynamics of large spin networks. These technical enhancements promise to open further pathways to scientific inquiry and practical applications in quantum computing.
Committed to fostering a vibrant European quantum ecosystem, the SPINUS consortium recognizes the importance of engaging with established initiatives like the European Quantum Industry Consortium (QuIC) and Project QUCATS. By identifying and leveraging synergies between these initiatives, SPINUS aims to bolster its research progress on an international scale. Additionally, exploring Quantum Pilot Lines within the Chips Joint Undertaking will enhance the project’s strategic roadmap, ensuring that beneficial synergies are effectively integrated.
Dr. Martin Koppenhoefer, project coordinator at Fraunhofer IAF, emphasized the project’s overarching goal of advancing European endeavors in quantum technologies. With an ambitious vision to play a critical role in the global race to develop large-scale quantum computers, SPINUS aims to harness the collective strengths of its partners to drive innovation in solid-state quantum technologies.
At the recent annual meeting, the organization of a quantum technologies networking event was also crucial in fostering collaborative ties beyond the consortium. This event highlighted key intersections among various EU-funded quantum projects and spotlighted the essential role of diamond-based quantum materials and devices in areas ranging from computing and sensing to communication. The successful exchange of knowledge and ideas at this event reinforces the significance of collaboration within the dynamic field of quantum research.
In summary, the SPINUS project demonstrates a remarkable commitment to advancing scalable solid-state quantum computing. The first year has yielded significant developments and strategic collaborations that highlight the consortium’s potential as an international leader in quantum research and development. As the project progresses, expectations for further breakthroughs in solid-state technologies continue to grow, heralding a new era in quantum computation that could redefine our interactions with technology at large.
Subject of Research: Scalable Solid-State Quantum Computing
Article Title: Pioneering Advances in Scalable Solid-State Quantum Computing
News Publication Date: October 2023
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Image Credits: Credit: AMIRES
Keywords: Quantum Computing, Solid-State Quantum Technologies, Nitrogen-Vacancy Centers, Quantum Research, European Innovation, Horizon Europe
