Abstract

Quantum computing, a concept generally attributed to Feynman, is currently one of the most hyped topics in science and technology. In this talk, I will provide a physics-based introduction to the subject and show, as Feynman pointed out, that quantum systems naturally offer enormous potential for processing and storing data. Unfortunately, measurements on quantum systems are brilliant at destroying all this data (or – for the Many Worlds enthusiasts – allowing each copy of ourselves access to just one piece of this data post measurement!!). I will discuss how quantum algorithms circumvent the measurement problem to allow a speed up over conventional computers. Finally, I will provide a brief overview of the progress in constructing quantum computers, mention ‘quantum supremacy’ and outline what I view as the most significant remaining challenges that need to be addressed in the field.