NITheCS MINI-SCHOOL: An Introduction to the Quantum Simulation of Closed and Open Quantum Systems

Title:  NITheCS MINI-SCHOOL: An Introduction to the Quantum Simulation of Closed and Open Quantum Systems

Speaker: Ian Joel David

University of KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract:

Quantum Simulation, the emulation of quantum system dynamics with quantum computers, is an application of quantum computing which showcases a clear advantage over classical computing. This advantage arises from the inherent difficulty in simulating quantum dynamics on classical systems, a challenge that originally inspired Feynman and others to propose quantum computing. The efficient simulation of quantum dynamics on quantum computers promises profound insights into various physical systems including many-body physics, quantum chemistry and quantum field theory. Quantum Simulation has also been pivotal in developing new quantum algorithms for state preparation and for solving both ordinary and partial differential equations on quantum computers. The goal of Quantum Simulation is to construct a quantum channel that approximates the evolution operator of a quantum system within some specified precision. This channel should be constructed such that it can be efficiently implemented on a quantum computer. We focus on two primary types of quantum systems: closed quantum systems, which evolve via unitary evolution, and open quantum systems, which interact with their environment and experience dissipation and decoherence. This mini-school will convey the essential concepts and principles underlying the Quantum Simulation of both closed and open quantum systems. Attendees will gain sufficient working knowledge to engage with and understand contemporary research literature on this cutting-edge topic.

Biography:

Ian studied Physics at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and has obtained a Masters degree in Physics. He is currently completing a PhD in Physics at UKZN under the supervision of Prof I. Sinayskiy and Prof F. Petruccione , focusing on the digital simulation of Quantum Systems. He has spent several years as a research assistant in Prof Petruccioneʼs Quantum Research Group. He has given several introductory and advanced quantum computing talks and mini-courses at various institutions and conferences.

A link to the announcement may be found here.