Lateral computing
In a quantum computer, the fundamental unit of information (called a quantum bit or qubit), is not binary but rather more quaternary in nature. This qubit property arises as a direct consequence of its adherence to the laws of quantum mechanics, which differ radically from the laws of classical physics. A qubit can exist not only in a state corresponding to the logical state 0 or 1 as in a classical bit, but also in states corresponding to a blend or quantum superposition of these classical states. In other words, a qubit can exist as a zero, a one, or simultaneously as both 0 and 1, with a numerical coefficient representing the probability for each state. A quantum computer manipulates qubits by executing a series of quantum gates, each a unitary transformation acting on a single qubit or pair of qubits. In applying these gates in succession, a quantum computer can perform a complicated unitary transformation to a set of qubits in some initial state.
Pittsburgh Quantum Institute
PQI researchers work on various aspects of quantum computing and information. Development in information theory as well as in quantum algorithms is carried out. Qubit platforms, such as superconducting microwave circuits and Majorana Fermions in semiconducting nanowires are designed for quantum computing. Quantum simulation is another approach to quantum computing; the experimental thrust is the design of a 1D solid state quantum simulation platform that can be controlled on the nanoscale, while a theoretical approach consists of the development of powerful numerical methods that would open the door to faster, more accurate simulations of various novel and exotic quantum systems on a classical computer.