EQUS seminar series: Dominic Williamson
Speaker: Dominic Williamson
Title: Fun with fractons
Abstract: Quantum error correction is essential for scalable universal quantum computers. Two-dimensional topological codes, exemplified by the surface code, underlie many of the current efforts to implement error correction. The essential properties of these codes are determined by topological phases of matter, which are fully understood in two dimensions via the framework of anyon models. In three dimensions, our understanding is significantly less developed; the existence of immobile particles known as fractons opens up a landscape of intricate possibilities. The immobility of fractons can be harnessed to produce more robust quantum codes. In this talk, I will give an overview of recent efforts to develop a systematic understanding of fracton topological phases and what this might tell us about three-dimensional topological codes.
Bio: Dominic is interested in topological phases of matter and the quantum error-correcting codes they define. He recently joined the quantum theory group at the University of Sydney to work on his DECRA project 'Topological phases of matter for quantum computation'. He is originally from Sydney and completed undergraduate and master's study at the University of Sydney. He then moved to the University of Vienna where he earned a PhD, followed by postdocs at Yale and Stanford.
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Major funding support
The Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS) acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to Elders past and present.