The course will provide an introduction to Quantum Technologies with a focus on experimental techniques and platforms. The course will start with an overview of experimental techniques in Quantum Technology, aimed to give a conceptual understanding of the key areas: Quantum Measurement and Sensing, Quantum Computation and Quantum Simulation, and Quantum Communications and Networks. In the field of Quantum Computing, we will cover ion traps and the underlying physics, as well as superconducting qubits and platforms. For the latter, we will present various types of quantum circuits, control and readout techniques, nanofabrication and electronic hardware, and highlight current development towards realization of quantum advantage in computing. In Quantum Communications and Networks, we will provide an overview of state-of-the-art protocols, photonic platforms, and experimental techniques, including photon sources, detectors, quantum memories and more. As an example for Quantum Simulation platforms, we will cover ultracold atoms in optical lattices and Rydberg arrays. We will also provide an introduction to Quantum Sensing and Metrology, by explaining the workings of atomic clocks, magnetometers and interferometers.
This course is aimed at students with a grounding in optical theory but seeking to expand their lab skills in optics and imaging.
It covers:
- basic design, construction and precision alignment of experiments from kit optical components (e.g. Thorlabs components)
- understanding of microscope objective lenses and their properties for optical experiments
- hands-on use of a variety of microscope and camera systems
- understanding of camera properties such as read noise, and selection of optimal camera technology
- designing and constructing with laser safety in mind
This in-person, practical lab course will take place over a number of days in Glasgow.