Mohammad Mirhosseini [Caltech]

Abstract: Mechanical oscillators in the quantum regime provide a promising platform for quantum information processing, precision sensing, and tests of fundamental physics. In this talk, I will present new techniques for generating and characterizing non-classical states of mechanical motion using superconducting qubits. Our approach couples electrical and mechanical degrees of freedom via modulation of the electrostatic force in a miniaturized vacuum-gap capacitor. By eliminating the need for piezoelectric materials, we enable mechanical oscillators made from single-crystal silicon, a material with exceptionally low acoustic loss.

I present results demonstrating single-phonon decay times exceeding those of superconducting qubits by more than two orders of magnitude, along with methods for mechanical spectroscopy of individual microscopic defects. Finally, I will discuss progress toward high-rate conversion of microwave photons to optical photons using mechanical transducers.

Research interests: 2D materials, quantum devices, quantum thermodynamics

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Notes:

• Main talk will begin @ 11:30 am in PAB 102/103
• Boxed lunch will available for attendees @ 12:30 pm in PAB 102/103
• Video Recordings once Speaker approved, will be available on our youtube channel