Quantum Information Science (QIS) Seminar
(CSI 991 - 006)
Monday, September 12, 2005, 4:30 - 6:00 PM
George Mason University, Fairfax Campus
Science Showcase, George Johnson Center, Room 237

Presenter:  Dr. Marco Lanzagorta (NCI/NRL/GMU) 
                   U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, George Mason University

Title: Some Thoughts Regarding Practical Quantum Computing

Abstract: Quantum computing has become an important area of research in computer science because of its potential to provide more efficient algorithmic solutions to certain problems than are possible with classical computing. However, while much has been written in popular and scientific literature about the advantages of the quantum computational model, several of the problems associated to the practical implementation of real-life complex software systems in quantum computers are often ignored. In this seminar I will argue that practical quantum computation is not as straightforward as commonly advertised, even if the technological problems associated to the manufacturing and engineering of large-scale quantum registers were solved overnight. To this end, I will discuss some of the frequently overlooked difficulties that plague quantum computing in the areas of memories, I/O, addressing schemes, compilers, oracles, approximate information copying, logical debugging, error correction and fault-tolerant computing protocols.

About the Author: Dr. Lanzagorta is a recognized authority on the research and development of advanced information technologies and their application to scientific and combat systems. Dr Lanzagorta received a PhD in physics from Oxford University and has worked at prestigious research institutions including the European Laboratory for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland, the International Centre for Theoretical Physics in Trieste, Italy, and the US Naval Research Laboratory in Washington DC. At the present time, Dr Lanzagorta is a Sr. Research Scientist in Advanced Computing for NCI Information Systems, and principal consultant on a project for the Center for Computational Science of NRL. His research interests include Quantum Computing, High Performance Computing and Visualization, as well as their scientific and military applications. Dr Lanzagorta is also an affiliate associate professor at George Mason University.