Calendar of Events

Speaker:  Matthew P.A. Fisher, UC Santa Barbara

Abstract:  The endeavor to construct a laboratory quantum computer has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar undertaking. However, an intriguing question arises: could we ourselves be quantum computers? While maintaining quantum coherence on macroscopic time scales is exceedingly unlikely in the warm wet brain, there is one exception: nuclear spins. Our strategy is one of reverse engineering, seeking to pinpoint the biochemical substrate and mechanisms that might underpin the hypothetical quantum processing involving nuclear spins. Seemingly, a specific  neural qubit and a unique collection of ions, molecules and organelles can be identified. I will present an overview of our (largely experimental) ongoing efforts to delve into this captivating realm of exploration.

Host:  Piers Coleman