Computer Science

Piero Rapagnani

General goals:
The main subject of this course is an introduction to the principles of quantum mechanics and their applications in quantum computing.

Specific goals:

Knowledge and understanding:
The student will acquire a working knowledge of the principles on which quantum computation is based.

Applying knowledge and understanding:
The quantum mechanics techniques will be applied in understanding some of the main quantum algorithms currently available, such as quantum cryptography, Shor’s Algorithm and Grover’s Algorithm.

Critical and judgmental abilities:
We stimulate discussions on the most difficult topics of quantum mechanics, like for instance entanglement, and encourage students to propose topics of their interest related to quantum mechanics and quantum computing.

Communication skills:
To pass the final exam, the students must give two presentations (in power point or equivalent program) on two topics, one regarding quantum mechanics and one related to quantum computing. This surely can help their ability to make professional presentations in public.

Learning abilities:
During the course, several reference texts are indicated that can be useful to deepen the knowledge acquired in class. Also, some simulation languages for quantum computing are presented, that can be a useful starting point for the development of quantum computing algorithms.