Fermilab Researcher Discovers Groundbreaking Link Between Quantum Computing and Dark Matter Detection
CHICAGO, IL - A recent breakthrough at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab) is shedding new light on the potential applications of superconducting quantum devices in both quantum computing and dark matter detection. Dr. Ryan Linehan, a postdoctoral research associate with the Quantum Science Center at Fermilab, has been leading this effort.
Working closely with researchers from the Quantum Science Center, which is hosted by Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Linehan's team has been studying the impact of particles on superconducting quantum devices to better understand how these materials respond. This research holds significant potential for advancing both dark matter detection and quantum computing technologies.
In line with this effort, phonons - tiny vibrations in a detector that can be used as a signal for detecting dark matter - have become a target area for study. While phonons are currently considered a "nuisance" by quantum computing researchers, Linehan and his colleagues believe they might actually play a crucial role in identifying low-energy interactions associated with dark matter particles.
This interdisciplinary collaboration represents an exciting overlap between particle physics and quantum information, as Dr. Linehan explained.
"I'm working in the Quantum Science Center at Fermilab with my background being in the LUX-ZEPLIN experiment searching for dark matter," he revealed. I shifted into superconducting quantum devices.
This new development presents a significant breakthrough in understanding how environmental disturbances impact the technology used in these applications, enabling researchers to make better technologies and also potentially use those concepts to improve techniques for detection of low-energy signals.
"Every time we develop one of our tools, we get feedback and have the possibility to change direction and move further along," explained Dr. Ryan Linehan, postdoctoral research associate with Fermilab. The journey through these experiments can take months, requiring thorough planning, multiple kinds of tests and analysis of a very complex set up.
However, according to him working in Fermilab offers certain benefits; "Researchers from both fields have realized they share challenges when it comes to understanding the microphysics of quantum devices. By studying the materials we're building better technologies for quantum computing while also repurposing the technology for dark matter detection."
Outside of work Dr. Linehan engages himself with surfing and social dancing he finds joy in dance - a Latin style including waltz, swing dancing, as well as other movements such as dancing.
When inquired about the benefits that surfing brings to his personal life, Dr. Linehan said:
"It was indeed my passion in California while there for nine months but I have now made social connections from it and even picked social dancing too."
This connection holds significant value to him.