We are an international research group at the Leipzig university working in the field of quantum science and technology. Our mission is to build spin qubits in solid-state systems such as diamond and apply them in real-world applications. This emerging technology stands at the intersection of quantum information, spin resonance, condensed matter and life sciences.
Quantum information processing
There is a world wide effort for realizing a large scale quantum computer which could outperform classical computers in simulating quantum mechanical systems and in breaking encryption protocols . There are several hardware platforms which are being studied by research groups and companies for the purpose of building a quantum computer. Examples are superconducting qubits, trapped atoms and spin qubits in solid-state systems. We are working on the latter and are using defect centers in diamond as qubits. Our focus is on the nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center and its coupling to nuclear spins within the diamond, which can be used as quantum memories. With this quantum register we can implement various quantum algorithms, which at this stage are already essential for quantum sensing purposes. We are working on enhancing the quantum register by increasing the number and the fidelity of coupled qubits. We are also working on the challenge of realizing long-distance entanglement distribution among multiple qubits by making use of scanning techniques and photonic channels. Moreover, we are looking into alternative realizations of spin qubits in diamond and other host materials.
More information:
Quantum error correction in a solid-state hybrid spin register
Quantum sensing for Nanoscale nuclear magnetic resonance
Nuclear spins can be detected on the nanometer scale using NV centers, under ambient conditions. Compared to conventional NMR, this represents an increase in sensitivity of fifteen orders of magnitude. We want to go beyond proof-of-concept experiments and apply this method in biochemistry and biomedicine. For this project, we have acquired BMBF group funding as part of the Quantum Futur call.
More Information:
Nanoscale nuclear magnetic resonance with chemical resolution and Quantum sensors for biomedical applications
Quantum sensing of 2D materials
Since the discovery of two-dimensional graphene, the field of 2D materials has grown rapidly. In the limit of just a few atomic layers, these materials show unique properties, from superconductivity, ferromagnetism, semiconductors to Wigner crystallization. There are many open questions related to these 2D materials. Highly sensitive nano-sensors that can function under variable environmental conditions are therefore needed. The NV centers in diamond are ideally suited for this purpose as they are quantitative magnetometers and show nanometer resolution. They are also multifunctional, i.e. you can measure not only magnetic fields (DC to GHz) but also electric fields and temperatures of samples.
This image was created by Nicolas Palazzo.
More information:
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy of an atomically thin material using a single-spin qubit