Bruce E. Kane,
Laboratory for Physical Sciences and
University of Maryland Department of Physics

Quantum Computing with Spins in Semiconductors:
Dreams Delusions and Devices

Spins are frequently considered the ideal candidate qubit for quantum information processing: the goals of coherent control and measurement of spins in semiconductors are consequently a major focus in the worldwide experimental effort to build a quantum computer. After a general introduction to the status of research on spin-based quantum computing, I will discuss work in our lab on the particular goal of measurement of electron spin states on single donors in silicon, the first step towards a silicon-based quantum computer. Even if it proves to be possible to perform quantum logic with spins, the more remote goal of scaleable quantum computing using solid state devices poses truly formidable challenges, primarily owing to the intrinsic variability of solid state device parameters. I will conclude with a discussion of our recent experimental effort to make a "perfect" silicon interface as a platform for future quantum logical devices with minimal variability.