UM Scientists Advance Quantum Computing & Energy Conversion Tech

Using a unique hybrid nanostructure, University of Maryland researchers have shown a new type of light-matter interaction and also demonstrated the first full quantum control of qubit spin within very tiny colloidal nanostructures (a few nanometers), thus taking a key step forward in efforts to create a quantum computer.

Published in the July 1 issue of Nature, their research builds on work by the same Maryland research team published in March in the journal Science (3-26-10). According to the authors and outside experts, the new findings further advance the promise these new nanostructures hold for quantum computing and for new, more efficient, energy generation technologies (such as photovoltaic cells), as well as for other technologies that are based on light-matter interactions like biomarkers. Read More

 

CREAM Team Finds Surprising Features in Cosmic Ray Energy Spectra

In May a University of Maryland-led team of scientists reported previously unknown features in the energy spectra of cosmic ray nuclei. Their findings contradict aspects of a prevailing model for how cosmic rays from outside our solar system may be accelerated to their very high energies by the expanding shock waves generated when massive stars explode as supernovas. Read More