Master/PhD Thesis (# of pos: 2)

Characterization of superconductive materials for the Realization of Large-Scale Quantum Systems

Description: As part of a research program whose goal is to take advantage of the high maturity of micro-nano-fabrication technologies on silicon to develop large-scale quantum computers, it is first necessary to study the feasibility of reproducibly manufacturing quantum bits (qubits) and their associated reading circuit.

The proposed thesis focuses on the advanced characterization of superconducting materials used in these quantum circuits and on the study of the mechanisms of loss of coherence by interaction of the field with 2-level systems (Two-Level System: TLS). The characterization will be carried out in the state-of-the-art premises of the Interdisciplinary Institute of Technological Innovation (3IT), using equipment such as atomic force microscopy, electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction or photo-spectroscopy. Subsequently, the electrical measurements in cryogenic environment will be carried out at the Institut Quantique (IQ) and will focus on the study of the overall performance of the materials developed, specific tools for the characterization of losses will eventually have to be developed. This work will involve in particular(i)a deep understanding of the characteristics governing superconducting materials such as TiN, Nb or NbN; (ii)the measurement of the different physical and chemical properties of these materials, (iii)the analysis of the data collected and their physical interpretation; (iv) interactions with students and researchers of 3IT and IQ in charge of the manufacture and study of quantum circuits on silicon.

Work environment: This internship will be conducted under the co-supervision of Pr. Dominique Drouin (3IT) and Pr. Michel Pioro-Ladrière (IQ). 3IT is a unique institute in Canada, specializing in the research and development of innovative technologies for energy, electronics, robotics and health. The IQ is a state-of-the-art institute whose mission is to invent the quantum technologies of tomorrow and transfer them to an industrial environment. The student will thus benefit from an exceptional research environment that combines students, professionals, professors and industrialists working hand-in-hand to develop the technologies of the future.

Specific requirements: The candidate must have a good academic record (average above 3.0), aptitude for applied physics, manual laboratory work, data analysis, strong adaptability and a taste for research and development (R&D).