Physics of Materials I

Catalog description

Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE) exploits fundamental principles of quantum mechanics for generating, processing, transmitting, and sensing quantum information to fundamentally transform our current technologies ranging from computing, communication, sensing, imaging and drug discovery. Even current technologies such as integrated circuits and devices used to power our information technology infrastructure (lasers, LEDs, modulators, detectors) also requires quantum mechanics to understand their behavior. Materials are the core of all technologies and their properties are determined by quantum principles. To understand the impact of quantum phenomena determining the novel properties of cutting-edge materials, we will combine traditional lecture style to learn the fundamental tools and techniques of quantum mechanics and then discuss some landmark scientific papers where quantum phenomena play a central role in materials, devices and technologies. In the last few weeks of the course, we will discuss the latest progress made in the area of quantum materials with focus towards applications in quantum computers, communications, sensors and medical technologies. We will also discuss the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning to discover new quantum materials with precise responses and its impact on future technologies. These discussions will be based on assigned reading of the relevant literature followed by open but supervised discussions to understand their relevance and impact. In parallel, we will make teams of 2 students to research (under supervision) literature in a specific area of quantum materials to develop a plan for a detailed term paper that will be evaluated based on the content, presentation and a written paper.