Roman Lutchyn, "Quantum Computation using Majorana-Based Topological Qubits"
Albano 2: A2200 - Auditorium 2 (180 seats)
Albano Building 2
As part of Nordic Quantum and a broad national discussion on quantum technologies, we invite you to attend the next Niels Bohr Colloquium and actively participate in the Quantum.2 round table on progress and challenges ahead.
Title: Quantum Computation using Majorana-Based Topological Qubits
Abstract: Research in quantum computing has provided numerous new physical insights and the potential to exponentially increase computational power for solving significant problems in science and technology. The primary obstacle to building a scalable quantum computer is errors caused by decoherence. Topological quantum computing addresses this challenge by utilizing topological materials that inherently limit errors. In this talk, I will discuss the engineering of topological superconductors that support Majorana zero-energy modes at the interface between a conventional superconductor (Aluminum or Lead) and a semiconductor with spin-orbit interaction (Indium Arsenide). I will present recent findings from the Microsoft Quantum team that indicate the emergence of topological superconductivity in proximitized semiconductor nanowires. Additionally, I will cover recent measurements of fermion parity, which represent a step towards the fusion of Majorana zero modes. Finally, I will outline a proposal for scalable quantum computing that involves topological qubits composed of superconducting islands in a Coulomb blockade regime, hosting aggregates of four or more Majorana zero modes.
Speaker: Roman Lutchyn is a distinguished physicist and Partner Research Manager at Microsoft, where he leads the quantum hardware design team within the Microsoft Quantum program. His journey in the field of quantum physics began with his graduate studies at the Theoretical Physics Institute, University of Minnesota, where he earned his PhD. His doctoral research focused on the decoherence of superconducting quantum bits, a critical area in the development of quantum computing. Before joining Microsoft in 2010, Roman was a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Joint Quantum Institute, a collaborative effort between the University of Maryland and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). His work during this period contributed significantly to the advancement of topological superconductivity and quantum computing. Roman's expertise and contributions to the field have been recognized by the American Physical Society (APS), where he is honored as a Fellow. His leadership at Microsoft continues to drive innovation in quantum hardware, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in quantum computing.
Time: Monday, June 15, 2026 at 15:00