Experimental techniques for quantum information

This subject provides the student with the fundamental experimental aspects of different physical technologies for their use and application in quantum information (quantum processing/computing, quantum communications and quantum metrology). The subject will focus on photonic systems, superconducting systems, solid state systems and detection devices.



----Learning Results:
The students who take this subject will acquire knowledge corresponding to the following items of the master studies report:
CON_01: To know the theoretical foundations of quantum mechanics, the mathematical formalism, the axioms and the simplest systems.
CON_17: To have knowledge of experimental techniques for quantum information and communication. Optical and solid state devices.

The course will focus in carrying out a selection of laboratory experiences (according to availability of experimental facility) dealing with the following contents:

-Experimental techniques to develop photonic systems for quantum information: two-photon quantum light sources, entangled light...; quantum transformations with basic optical devices; quantum detection (projective, coincidences, …)

-Experimental techniques in systems based on superconductors or other quantum materials: cryogenic techniques; measurements in superconductors or other nano-coherent solids; their quantum protectorates; integration in hybrid devices and sensors.

-Basic simulations and experiences: Bell inequalities, BB84 protocol, HOM interference, QRNG, ...

Basic:
-- Class notes (available in the online classroom of the subject in the virtual campus)
-- M. Fox 'Quantum optics. An introduction' , Oxford University Press, 2006.
-- Zhe-Yu Jeff Ou, Quantum Optics for Experimentalists, World Scientific, 2017.
-- D.S. Simon, G. Jaeger and A.V. Sergienko, 'Quantum Metrology, Imaging, and Communication', Springer 2017.
-- R. Simon, A. Smith - Superconductors. Conquering Technology's New Frontier (Plenum Publ., or reprint by Springer, ISBN 9780306429590)



Complementary:

-- P.-A. Moreau et al., Imaging with quantum states of light, Nature Reviews Physics Vol 1, 367 (2019)
-- D.A. Cardwell, D.C. Larbalestier, A. Braginski (Eds.) - Handbook of Superconductivity, Vol. 3: Characterization and Applications (CRC Press, ISBN 9781439817360)
- M. Tinkham - Introduction to Superconductivity: Second Edition (McGraw-Hill, or reprint by Dover Books on Physics, ISBN 9780071147828)

The students who take this subject will acquire the abilities and skills of critical and creative thinking, communication and collaborative work that are indicated in the degree verification report (HD1, HD2, HD2, HD3).

In addition to the basic (CB1-CB5), general (CG1-CG4) and transversal (CT1-CT8) competencies indicated in the degree verification report, students will acquire the following specific competencies for this subject

Specific Competences:
CE2- To know and to acquire competence in experimental techniques for processing quantum information: interactions, measurements, oscillations, interference, communication systems, ...
CE4- To know and to be able to apply the physical theories inherent to the understanding of systems for processing quantum information, including quantum thermodynamics as well as advanced aspects of magnetism and quantum mechanics.
CE5- To know and to understand the nature of the physical platforms for processing quantum information in solid-state systems: superconducting systems, cryoscience and quantum materials, including the study of topological states
CE11- To acquire a solid foundation on the quantum theory of information in its application to quantum communications, as well as on the technology of photonic devices used in quantum communications, both terrestrial and aerial and via satellite.

Laboratory classes at the Campus Vida of the University of Santiago de Compostela, requiring attendance at the laboratory itself.

There will be a virtual platform where essential and supplementary training and information material will be made accessible.

For tutorials it is advisable to make an appointment.

The assessment will be by continuous evaluation, with follow-up of the activity in the laboratory and evaluation of a report of the laboratory activities written by the student. The weighting for the average will be set and announced previous to the beginning of each course within the margins approved in the master studies verification report.

1-Follow-up 20%
2-Report of the laboratory activities 80%

For second-chance students and/or repeaters of previous courses, the criteria will be the same. The student have the right to maintain up to one course the qualifications (passing or better) of previous activities, works and reports, and having the opportunity to renew said evaluation contributions for eacg opportunity (except doing again the experience in the laboratory for the second opportunity).

As in the rest of the subjects of the University of Santiago USC, for all students the qualification of "not presented" will be awarded in accordance with the provisions of the regulations for permanence in undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in that university.

Likewise, in cases of fraudulent completion of exercises or tests, the USC's "Regulations for the evaluation of academic performance of students and review of qualifications" will apply.

Laboratory classes: 25 hours
Personal work of students: 47 hours.
Tutorials: 3 hours
Total: 75 hours