Research

Quantum computing is at the cusp of a revolution. A physical machine with 100 quantum bits (qubits) is expected in the next 3-5 years, large enough to solve problems that classical machines can not solve. Yet the algorithms and software for such a machine are lagging. EPiQC (Enabling Practical-scale Quantum Computing) is a vertically-integrated effort to maximize the experimental value of physical machines with 100 to 1000 qubits. Our work spans three research thrusts:

Quantum algorithms and Applications

We will study the algorithms and applications which demonstrate the most promise in the five year horizon. Among these are quantum simulation, a natural task for a quantum computer, and the Quantum Adiabatic Algorithm which could yield efficient solutions to optimization problems.

Technology-Aware Programming Environment

EPiQC aims to shift focus from general quantum computation, which is traditionally based on abstractions and optimistic assumptions, to quantum computation that is tailored to specific architectures that will be realized in the next five years.

Program Verification, Debugging, and QC Simulation

Because quantum systems have such a large state space, they cannot be simulated efficiently on classical computers. Nonetheless, verification, debugging, and simulation are a critical part of architectural design. We will develop tractable methods to model quantum systems and software.