Scanning Probe Microscopy of Superconducting Capping Layers

Project Level: PhD, Honours, Masters

Superconducting quantum circuits are one of the leading quantum computing platforms. To advance superconducting quantum computing to a point of practical importance, it is critical to identify and address material imperfections that lead to decoherence. This project will use scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to explore sources of decoherence at the atomic scale. The main tool for these investigations is a new low-temperature STM/AFM installed in Jacobson's laboratory. Students will learn fundamental concepts in superconducting quantum devices, ultrahigh vacuum and cryogenic techniques, and explore how to improve quantum devices.