Quantum Computing and Sensing Group

Mission statement

Our mission is to advance the frontiers of quantum sensing and computing through innovative, experimental, and theoretical approaches. We leverage quantum phenomena to enable transformative capabilities, aiming to demonstrate a quantum advantage for applications that range from analog simulation and characterization of quantum materials to dark matter detection to national security. These capabilities ultimately enable more accurate tools for scientific discovery and real-world applications.

Summary

Members of Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Quantum Sensing and Computing Group are pushing the boundaries of quantum sensing, precision measurement technologies, and quantum computing platforms with potentially far-reaching implications for scientific research and real-world applications.

The group’s quantum sensing efforts are mainly focused on continuous variable photonic systems that are based on squeezed and entangled states of light. In addition to free-space photonic systems, efforts are underway to develop integrated quantum photonic capabilities. The group’s experimental and theoretical work spans applications ranging from dark matter detection to materials characterization to spectroscopy. The team explores novel approaches that leverage quantum states of light to obtain a quantum enhancement and to enable scalability from single sensing devices to arrays of devices while efficiently using available quantum resources.

On the quantum simulation and computing front, the group members are developing quantum hardware platforms, including ion traps and photonic systems, that offer reconfigurable testbeds to address a broad range of applications related to energy, security, and scientific discovery. Their work includes the development of systems with precise control of trapped ions that can serve as qubits for quantum computing and simulation or nodes in a network as well as the generation of photonic quantum resource states for one-way quantum computing and quantum compiling applications.

Moving forward, the group will continue to develop next-generation quantum systems for sensing and computing to advance scientific discovery and bridge the gap between laboratory demonstrations and real-world applications. Their work could help establish new standards in precision measurement, sensing, and quantum computing, thereby contributing to advances in fields ranging from fundamental physics to materials characterization and simulation to national security.