Full Stream Name: Harnessing Quantum Physics for Computation

Principal Investigator: Dr. Brian La Cour 

Research Educator: Dr. Noah Davis

Course options: Spring & Fall

Quantum computers promise to revolutionize computing as we know it.  How do they work and what are they really good for?

In this FRI stream, students will learn about quantum computing and explore how they may be used to solve real-world problems.  The work will consist of a combination of both computer simulation and hardware experimentation using the small state of the art quantum computer available through the IBM Quantum Experience.  Students will engage in hands-on learning and research using actual hardware that may be accessed locally or remotely.  Research topics will include the following: (1) understanding how quantum systems can be used to store and process information, (2) understanding and implementing quantum algorithms to solve specific problems, and (3) methods of protecting quantum information using quantum error correction.  Students will benefit from a background in basic linear algebra, familiarity with a high-level programming language, and an introduction to modern physics.

This course was designed by Applied Research Laboratories in collaboration with the Texas Advanced Computing Center and the Departments of Computer Science and Physics and is cross-listed under both Computer Science and Physics.  The spring course will focus on quantum information, while the fall course will focus on quantum algorithms.  Both are taught on campus.  An optional summer program will explore experimental quantum optics and will be conducted at the J. J. Pickle Research Campus.