Tom Whitmore joined Dr Winfried Hensinger to carry out pioneering work on building a quantum computer with trapped ions.
The project
Quantum theory can have powerful applications due to the possibility of implementing new quantum technologies such as the quantum computer.
While such a device could have very important commercial and national security applications due to the existence of quantum factoring algorithms, its existence would revolutionise modern day science by allowing true quantum simulations of systems that may be modelled classically only insufficiently due to an in-principle limitation of current computer technology.
Recent developments in ion trapping technology show that it should be possible to build a quantum computer with trapped ions.
In the Ion Quantum Technology group at Sussex, we are in the process of building an elementary quantum computer, an effort that is based at Sussex but include links to nanofabrication facilities, ion trapping groups and theorists around the world.
For latest developments visit the Ion Quantum Technology Group. The group is part of the Sussex Centre for Quantum Technologies.
Tom's work
Tom spent his summer research placement working with renowned quantum physicist Winfried Hensinger.
He was helping to create a scaleable quantum computer and in particular he focused on creating a microwave emitter.
He said: "It's been amazing experience working with world-leaders.
"During this project I have learnt a lot about how microwaves travel though space, how they interfere with each other and how they are emitted from different types of emitter or antenna.
"I have picked up lots of skills in 3D modelling and good simulation practice."
"It's been an amazing experience working with world-leaders."
Tom Whitmore
Physics (research placement) MPhys