Protected qubits in superconducting circuits

Superconducting circuits are the foundation for impressive progress in quantum computing technology. However, the protection of quantum information in superconducting circuits against environmental noise remains a significant obstacle towards a large-scale quantum computer. Should we keep improving device parameters for resolving this problem, or should we opt for a fundamentally new approach that relies on the same well-developed technology but enables the robust storage of quantum information?  In this talk, I will present my work and vision towards the design of a protected superconducting superconductor islands as new circuit elements for reliable quantum information storage. I will then specify the requirements for initialization, read-out, and, most importantly, a universal quantum gate qubit design, and discuss its implementation in a superconducting interference device.

Host:  Dominique Laroche