A Quantum Leap in Quantum Information: Quantum computing, simulation, communication and metrology with quantum optical platforms

by Peter Zoller (Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of Innsbruck, and IQOQI, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Innsbruck, Austria)

Thursday 27 Feb 2025, 16:30 → 18:00 Europe/Zurich

500/1-001 - Main Auditorium (CERN)

On a microscopic scale, our world is governed by quantum physics. Beyond the fundamental questions and 'mysteries' of quantum mechanics, the ability to control this microscopic realm opens up exciting opportunities for new applications and quantum technologies—potentially more powerful than their classical counterparts. As we celebrate 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, marking 100 years since the formulation of quantum mechanics by Heisenberg and Schrödinger, we also commemorate three decades of progress in quantum information and quantum computing. This talk will provide an overview of quantum information from both conceptual and historical perspectives. We will explore the implementation and applications of quantum computers and simulators, quantum networks, and quantum metrology. Our primary focus will be on quantum optical systems, such as atoms and ions manipulated by laser light—prototypical examples of engineered quantum many-body systems. These systems can be controlled at the level of individual quanta, enabling precise manipulation, engineering, and distribution of quantum entanglement. Topics will include trapped ions as universal quantum processors, as well as digital and analog simulations of strongly correlated quantum matter using Rydberg atoms in tweezer arrays.
We will highlight current research examples, such as quantum simulations of lattice gauge theories, the characterization and verification of quantum devices through Hamiltonian and Liouvillian learning, and the development of quantum algorithms for optimizing entanglement in quantum sensors.

Bio: Peter Zoller is a theoretical physicist and works in the field of quantum optics and quantum information. The focus of his research is on forming a bridge from quantum optics to quantum information and solid-state physics.
As a theorist, Peter Zoller has written essential work on the interaction of laser light and atoms. In addition to fundamental developments in quantum optics, he has been able to form bridges to quantum information and solid-state physics. A model of a quantum computer proposed by him and the Spanish physicist Ignacio Cirac in 1995 is based on the interaction of lasers with cold ions stored in an electromagnetic trap. The main features of this idea have been implemented experimentally in recent years. It is one of the most promising concepts for the development of a scalable quantum computer.
Along with his research colleagues, Peter Zoller has also established a link between quantum physics and solid-state physics. One of his suggestions has been to build a quantum simulator with cold atoms.

Coffee and tea served at 16:00