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The research goal of this NSF sponsored project is to enable trapped ion quantum computers to communicate over the Internet. Trapped Ions are a scalable quantum computing platform with a built-in optical interface that makes them an excellent choice for exchanging entanglement over optical fibers. This project focuses on the development of two crucial hardware modules and establishing a multi-node testbed covering distances of several miles: (1) The quantum frequency converter (qFC) module and converts photons from a quantum computer to telecom wavelength channels while preserving the entanglement with the internal quantum memory of the quantum computer. (2) The quantum reconfigurable add-drop multiplexer (qROADM) module controls the flow of network traffic using an integrated photonic circuit and performs entanglement swapping. Both modules fully integrate quantum functionalities with all required classical communication (fiber polarization stabilization, laser frequency locking, clock distribution etc.). (3) The Mid-Atlantic Regional Quantum Internet (MARQI) uses the existing Internet infrastructure in the DC/Baltimore area to connect quantum computers, quantum sensor arrays, and detectors via commercial telecom fibers, initially employing un-used telecom fibers (dark fibers) and in a later stage sharing fibers to transfer quantum and classical information. This will allow for defining and implementing protocol standards for a full-scale quantum-classical internet.

Objectives/Job Duties for this Position

Currently, the testbed connects ion-trap systems at JQI/ARL and single-photon detectors at IREAP and MAX in a hub-and-spoke topology; prototypes of qFC and qROADM have been built and tested at JQI/ARL but have not been deployed elsewhere in the MARQI testbed. To connect ion-trap quantum computers over large distances, additional frequency converters must be built and installed.

As a major extension of the current network, a new MARQI node is being established at QLab in collaboration with IonQ. IonQ takes the lead in building a state-of-the-art ion-trap device containing Ytterbium and Barium ions, while UMD/QLab will build an improved quantum frequency converter, based on the existing prototype developed at JQI, and will develop control, monitoring, and calibration software for the new devices, interfaced with motorized opto-mechanical components.

This position will support the construction and characterization of the quantum frequency converter at QLab, in collaboration with IonQ engineers and experienced graduate assistants of Profs. Quraishi and Waks, under the supervision of the QLab Director. Through this position, the student will gain proficiency in quantum physics, electronics, photonics, and hardware-oriented software development and will be well-prepared to conduct advanced studies and/or work in a QIS related field.

Education:

Sedentary work. Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Repetitive motion. Substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers. This position requires close visual acuity to perform an activity such as: preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer terminal; and extensive reading. Must have the ability to walk short distances.

The University of Maryland, College Park, an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, creed, marital status, political affiliation, personal appearance, or on the basis of rights secured by the First Amendment, in all aspects of employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.