Developing Energy Efficient Fast Memory for Quantum Computers

This project explores the use of rare-earth nitrides (RENs). These materials are both magnetic and semiconducting, and can function at extremely low temperatures, a requirement for quantum computing. It’s thought their unique properties could be revolutionary. The research is a collaboration with Italian, Japanese and Australian researchers and is being led by Dr Simon Granville of Victoria University of Wellington. Quantum computers will require ultra-high performance classical computers to control them. While existing superconducting materials can function at the low temperatures required, they lack a memory component. Dr Granville says integrating magnetic materials with superconducting electronics could be the key to developing energy-efficient, fast memory that operates at these extreme temperatures. The team hopes to develop RENs in the laboratory and incorporate them into integrated circuits. This would provide the basis for a scalable memory device that finally enables a full superconducting electronics technology with applications including global financial modelling and the simulation of complex climate systems.