Superposing coherent states for fun & profit
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- Superposing coherent states for fun & profit
Colloquium by Prof. Barry C. Sanders
Coherent states conveniently represent the classically meaningful wavelike states of light, as opposed to the corpuscular number states, but superposing coherent states is mind-bogglingly unclassical, including as examples “cat states”, “comb states” and “compass states”. I present a history of superposing coherent states, especially for oscillators (including electromagnetic field states) and for spin, and extend to entangled coherent states. I then show that superposed coherent states are a viable path for photonic quantum computing and for reaching towards the ultimate limits of sensing. Finally, I discuss our experimental realisations (at University of New SouthWales) of superposed coherent states in a spin-7/2 Antimony nucleus in a silicon substrate.
During his visit, Prof. Sanders will also lead a series of lectures on topic:
Quantum Computing – Principles, Possibilities and Practicalities
Prof. Barry C. Sanders
Prof. Barry C. Sanders is a distinguished quantum physicist and professor at the University of Calgary, and Scientific Director of Calgary’s Quantum City, where he leads the development of a strong quantum innovation ecosystem. He also serves as a visiting scientist and advisor to CERN’s Open Quantum Institute, contributing to international efforts in quantum technology development and governance.
Prof. Sanders holds two Diplomas of Imperial College, a PhD from the University of London, and a Doctor of Science from Imperial College London awarded for career achievement. His career includes postdoctoral appointments in Australia and New Zealand, a 12-year professorship at Macquarie University in Sydney, and, since 2003, a return to his alma mater in Calgary. His theoretical research includes quantum sensing and metrology, quantum and quantum-resilient communication, quantum computing and quantum optics. He held numerous distinguished international visiting professorships and affiliations, he as well undertakes outreach in the developing world and has created study opportunities from graduate students from underserved regions.
An internationally recognized leader, Prof. Sanders holds advisory and board roles with organizations including CERN’s Open Quantum Institute, the Google XPRIZE in quantum computing, the Banff International Research Station, Deep Tech Canada, and the Creative Destruction Lab, and has served as an expert for the Canadian Council of Academies. He is co-lead of the Canada–France Quantum Alliance, a former Editor-in-Chief of New Journal of Physics, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, the Institute of Physics (UK), the American Physical Society, and Optica. He received the City of Calgary International Achievement Award in 2022.
Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics CU and Humboldt Club SK
Colloqute series

QUTE.sk welcomed renowned physicist Prof. Dr. Dieter Meschede to Slovakia
In May 2024, QUTE.sk had the honor of hosting the distinguished Prof. Dr. Dieter Meschede in Slovakia. Prof. Meschede, a leading figure in the field of quantum physics from the University of Bonn, brought his vast knowledge and pioneering research to Bratislava, captivating audiences with his insights and expertise.
The project skQCI is funded by the EU Programme DIGITAL and Programme NextGenerationEU from Recovery and Resilience Plan of the Slovak Republic.

