This course provides an overview of experimental approaches to quantum information processing and quantum computing. We discuss the basic principles of quantum computing to understand the physical requirements, and then survey current research on implementing quantum information processing in various physical systems, in part by reading recent experimental literature. Specific topics covered include gate-based and adiabatic quantum computing, topologically protected quantum architectures, as well as several physical qubit systems: trapped ions/atoms, superconducting circuits, and electron and nuclear spins in solids.

This course focuses on contemporary research in quantum science, including quantum computing and quantum information processing, quantum measurement, quantum communication and networks, quantum sensing and metrology, and quantum devices. The emphasis is to understand the current literature in the context of the broader QSE field, and to learn how to critically evaluate claims and evidence. Knowledge of quantum mechanics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and statistical mechanics at the undergraduate level, and concurrent enrollment in QSE core courses is assumed.