Tweezer-programmable 2D quantum walks in a Hubbard-regime lattice

Quantum walks provide a framework for designing quantum algorithms that is both intuitive and universal. To leverage the computational power of these walks, it is important to be able to programmably modify the graph a walker traverses while maintaining coherence. We do this by combining the fast, programmable control provided by optical tweezers with the scalable, homogeneous environment of an optical lattice. With these tools we study continuous-time quantum walks of single atoms on a square lattice and perform proof-of-principle demonstrations of spatial search with these walks. When scaled to more particles, the capabilities demonstrated can be extended to study a variety of problems in quantum information science, including performing more effective versions of spatial search using a larger graph with increased connectivity.

Automated summary

Quantum walks provide an intuitive and universal framework for designing quantum algorithms, allowing programmable modification of the walker's graph while maintaining coherence. In this study, we combine the control of optical tweezers with the environment of an optical lattice to investigate continuous-time quantum walks of single atoms on a square lattice and demonstrate spatial search. These capabilities can be extended to study various problems in quantum information science, including more effective spatial search using larger, more connected graphs.