Qudit Circuit Simulations: Theory to implementation
Science/CS domains
Quantum Circuit Simulation, Qudits
Overview
Quantum computing is transitioning from maintaining logical qubits to performing logical computations. Qudit technology is an active area of exploration because many physical systems have more than two levels available. Understanding logical qudit operations and qubit-qudit operations can help further advance the field.
The purpose of this project is to simulate qudit circuits and evaluate codes capable of representing qubit/qudit operations.
Project description
This project bridges theory with implementation for qudits. As quantum hardware matures, new avenues of research, such as qudits, become feasible. The goal of this project is to understand and characterize the performance of encoded qubit-qudits during complex operations.
Project tasks
The intern will fulfill the following roles in this project:
- Develop simulations: Develop qubit/qudit gates, circuits, and perform simulations for various algorithms (time evolution, phase estimation, etc.)
- Determine logical codes: Primarily, this phase will consist of a literature review and selection of promising qudit codes.
- Implement codes: Simulate logical qubit/qudit operation, syndrome measurement, and respective decoders.
- Perform analysis: Analyze performance via high-volume simulations, evaluating trade-offs between overheads, complexity. Determine thresholds where logical performance exceeds physical baselines.
Qualifications
Required
- Currently pursuing a master’s or Ph.D. degree in computer science, physics, electrical engineering, mathematics, or a related field.
- Demonstrated understanding of the fundamentals of quantum computing, quantum algorithms, and/or quantum physics.
- Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Python).
- Familiarity with common quantum computing frameworks (e.g., Qiskit, Cirq, Pennylane).
- Strong analytical, organizational, and technical writing skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced research environment.
Desired
- Foundation in tensor networks for simulations
- Foundation in stabilizer codes, decoders.
Contact
Project mentors
Ermal Rrapaj
Computer Systems Engineer 3
National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center (NERSC)
HPC Technology Dept.
Advanced Technologies Group
Doru Popovici
Computational Research Scientist/Engineer
Applied Mathematics and Computational Research (AMCR) Division