CS Undergraduate Seminar – Quantum Computing

Abstract: I will describe how quantum mechanics allows one to perform computation differently from conventional computation and why such algorithms have a potential for exponential speed-up. I will describe some of the strange phenomena of the quantum world and how they can be used for advantage in computation. I will also describe personal reflections on what science is likely to be enabled through quantum computing in the next few years, and what I view as the true quantum advantage.

Bio: James Freericks is passionate about teaching quantum mechanics to all. He has taught quantum courses to many nonscientists at Georgetown and has a MOOC called Quantum Mechanics for Everyone on edX that has enrolled over 50,000 students. At Georgetown, he is a Professor and McDevitt Chair in the Department of Physics. His research is in describing nonequilibrium pump-probe experiments, in using near-term quantumcomputers to perform real science, and in developing quantum pedagogy that is more accessible. He is a fellow of the American Physical Society and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.