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Quantum Computing Researcher
Develops computers that use quantum mechanics to solve problems impossible for normal computers.
Did you know?
A big enough quantum computer could break today's internet encryption, so in 2024 the US agency NIST released new quantum-safe encryption standards.
How subjects help
- Physics: Keep fragile quantum bits stable long enough to finish a calculation before errors creep in.
- Mathematics: Use probability and grids of numbers called matrices to describe how quantum bits behave.
- Computer Science: Write programs for today's small quantum computers and test which problems they might speed up.
- Engineering: Build chips and super cold fridges that shield quantum bits from heat and electrical noise.
A famous name
Peter Shor: Found Shor's algorithm in 1994, showing quantum computers could break codes that protect today's internet.
Try it yourself: Catch a flipped coin like a network does
- Lay 16 coins in a 4 by 4 square, heads or tails at random.
- Add a fifth coin to the end of each row and the bottom of each column so every row and column has an even number of heads. Add one in the corner too. This is your "parity" check.
- Turn away while your helper flips just one coin.
- Turn back and find the row and the column that now have an odd number of heads. The flipped coin is where they cross.
- Swap and let your helper try, then try a bigger grid.
Network and telecoms engineers rely on extra check bits like these, so that when data is damaged on its way across a network the error can be spotted and often fixed.
Adapted from CS Unplugged (University of Canterbury): Parity magic.
Also try: Measure your sensor delay.
Known for it in
USA, China, Canada, Germany, Australia