Getting up to Speed on Quantum Networks: Modes, States, Transformations and Measurements (level 3)

Instructors: Saikat Guha and Michael Raymer

January 4, 2024 | 11AM EST

The learning goals of this course are to absorb the basic theory and concepts of quantum optics needed to understand how a quantum network works, emphasizing few-photon states as carriers of quantum information. Topics include Electromagnetic Modes and their Linear Transformations; Quantization, Single- and Two-photon States; Two-photon entangled states by spontaneous parametric down conversion; Bell-State measurements; distributing entanglement.

Information in a Photon (level 3)

Instructors: Tiju Cherian John & Jack Postlewaite

January 5, 2024 | 11AM EST

Beginning with a quick introduction to optical communication channels we discuss channel coding and modulation formats. Some basic optical receivers and their pairing with various modulation formats will be covered. In the second half of the course, we shall delve into the capacity of optical communication channels where we provide select formulae to characterize example optical channels. Finally, we examine the concept of super-additivity and its applications in deep space communications, with some discussion on channel noise.

Error Correction for Quantum Networks (level 3)

Instructors: Narayanan Rengaswamy, Michele Pacenti and Sijie Cheng

January 8, 2024 | 11AM EST

The short course will introduce the fundamentals of classical and quantum error correction using visual elements as well as necessary linear algebra. The course will start with the basics of classical error correction, linear block codes, parity-check matrices, syndrome, standard array decoding and finish the first part with a discussion of low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes and iterative decoders. Then the course will explain the basics of quantum error correction and draw comparisons to the concepts introduced for classical error correction. There will be discussions on the circuits that must be implemented to enable quantum error correction. The course will end with a discussion of how these error correction techniques bring advantages to quantum networks, e.g., enabling code-based entanglement distillation protocols in quantum repeaters.

Optical transmission systems for quantum networks (level 1-2)

Instructors: Dan Kilper and Shelbi Jenkins

January 9, 2024 | 11AM EST

This course is a 1-2 level introductory course aimed at teaching the fundamentals of optical networks and how we can integrate quantum systems with our current optical infrastructure. This course will be largely conceptual and focus on general concepts and applications so students will not be expected to know extensive quantum or math prior to this course. 

Integrated Photonics Platforms for Quantum Networks (level 3)

Instructors: Marko Lončar and CJ Xin 

January 10, 2024 | 11AM EST

This course offered provides a survey of the latest advances in several popular material platforms for integrated photonics with a focus on their relevance to the development of long-distance quantum networks. Platforms addressed in this course will include silicon, silicon nitride, aluminum nitride, lithium niobate, III-V semiconductors, etc. The course will highlight key performance metrics of components for photonic control that have been demonstrated on each platform. Additionally, the state of source and detector integration in each platform will also be addressed. Components of particular interest to quantum networking applications, such as single photon detectors and sources, will be discussed in detail. Time and interest permitting, instructors will discuss key existing challenges, such as material quality and fabrication limitations, for select platforms, and highlight opportunities for further development/work.