Quantum Computing

Motivation

Quantum computing has become a focus of the PGI over the last 10 years. During this time, the field of research has made considerable progress. Today, there is the prospect that we are on the direct path to developing real computing machines based on the principles of quantum coherence. To contribute to this goal, the PGI has brought together expertise to drive forward a leading research program in this field. The construction of a German or European quantum computer in Jülich is now within reach.

Fundamentals

On the one hand, our departments deal with purely theoretical predictions and modeling and control theory at system level. On the other hand, these are supplemented by experiments with semiconducting and superconducting qubit systems. In order to develop entire systems, hardware development is complemented by software development for quantum computers. Our scientific contribution consists primarily in improving the quality of qubits, increasing their number in systems and making them usable with low error rates. It is therefore currently particularly important to reduce the susceptibility to errors by improving the individual components and error correction mechanisms.

Component and system development benefits from the close connection to the materials expertise at PGI. In addition, we seek targeted exchange and actively contribute to the progress of quantum computing in various projects with other scientific institutions, universities and industry.

Infrastructures & cooperations

Important supporting infrastructures in Jülich in this field are:

- The Central Institute of Engineering, Electronics and Analytics (ZEA), which develops electronics that are not available on the market in this form.
- The Jülich Supercomputing Centre (JSC), which, as a user center, provides computing power and IT tools as well as methods and know-how and promotes application development.

The exchange within the JARA Institute for Quantum Information (IQI), a joint project of RWTH Aachen University and Forschungszentrum Jülich, and within the Cluster of Excellence Matter and Light for Quantum Computing (ML4Q) between the University of Cologne, the University of Bonn, RWTH Aachen University and Forschungszentrum Jülich combines additional forces of theoretical and experimental research.