The tin-vacancy center in diamond: understanding this emerging qubit and its application to quantum networks

Abstract: The negatively charged tin-vacancy (SnV) center in diamond has many advantages as a spin/photon interface for use in long-distance quantum networks. In particular, the SnV has bright emission, reduced sensitivity to electrical noise, and long spin lifetimes at temperatures of several Kelvin. Here we develop understanding of the SnV as a spin qubit, including demonstrations of high fidelity spin control [1] and single-shot spin readout [2]. In the process, we make a detailed study of the SnV Hamiltonian, and, we use the SnV to study how weak quantum measurement can be a useful tool for metrology. These results pave the way for SnV spins to be used as a building block for future quantum networks. The techniques and understanding we develop are also widely applicable to other quantum systems.

Bio: Eric in a postdoctoral researcher working in the Vuckovic group at Stanford University,
department of Electrical Engineering. Previously, Eric completed his B.A. in physics at the
University of Pennsylvania, and his Ph.D. in physics in Konrad Lehnert’s group at JILA and the
University of Colorado.
Eric’s research is toward developing superconducting and solid-state devices to advance the next
generation of quantum technology. His Ph.D. research focused on microwave frequency
superconducting circuits, motivated by finding ways to scale and improve quantum computers in
this platform. This involved developing superconducting switches, non-reciprocal devices, and
parametric amplifiers, and applying these devices to improve the measurement of
superconducting qubits. As a postdoc, Eric changed directions to study solid-state spin defect
centers, with specific focus on the tin-vacancy center in diamond. His research has improved
understanding of this center as a spin qubit, unlocking its potential for use in long-distance
quantum networks.
In the future, Eric is interested in hybrid quantum technology at the nascent interface between
superconducting devices and solid-state spins. He hopes to combine the separate advantages of
these platforms in useful ways that can advance the fields of quantum sensing, quantum
computing and quantum networking.