Advances in quantum hardware have realized the fundamental building blocks of quantum networks, demonstrating high-fidelity, single-qubit control, and multi-qubit links over long distances. As such technologies continue to mature, there is a growing need to look beyond the single-link level and to consider system-level architectures for building scalable and reliable quantum networks. Using a discrete event simulator, we will simulate the performance of various entanglement and repeater protocols on a variety of qubits. These simulations will help us choose the optimal protocols and qubits for a testbed quantum network that connects MIT, Lincoln Laboratory, and Harvard. We will also attempt to identify some general guiding principles for the development of practical quantum networks.

“I am participating in SuperUROP to explore the frontiers of quantum computation. I am excited to apply what I have previously learnt about quantum mechanics towards this research project, and I hope to learn more about what quantum networks could look like in the future.”