Scaling Quantum Computers with Long Chains of Trapped Ions

Dissertation Committee Chair: Prof. Christopher Monroe
Committee: 
Prof. Norbert Linke
Prof. Alicia Kollár
Prof. Vladimir Manucharyan
Prof. Christopher Jarzynski
Abstract:
Quantum computers promise to solve models of important physical processes, optimize complex cost functions, and challenge cryptography in ways that are intractable using current computers. In order to achieve these promises, quantum computers must both increase in size and decrease error rates.

Bose Einstein Condensates for Analogue Cosmology Experiments

Dissertation Committee Chair: James Williams, Chair
 
Committee: 
Gretchen Campbell, Co-Chair/Advisor
Ian Spielman
Theodore Jacobson
Ronald Walsworth, Dean's Representative
 
Abstract:
This thesis presents the construction and characterization of an experimental apparatus to produce sodium Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) in  arbitrary potentials.
Particular attention is devoted to the study of toroidal BECs as platforms for analogue cosmology models.