NCCR SPIN’s Fourth Annual Meeting
The fourth Annual Meeting of the National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) SPIN took place on June 12-14, 2024 in Pontresina, gathering young researchers and some industry experts to discuss the latest advancements in spin-based quantum technologies. This three-day event featured a dynamic program of over 20 scientific talks, approximately 35 poster presentations, and engaging special sessions.
Scientific Sessions and Highlights
The meeting commenced with an opening session that set the stage for a series of in-depth scientific talks. The sessions spanned various cutting-edge topics, including:
Spin qubit hardware development
Materials growth and characterization
Qubit coupling and readout
Qubit control and CryoCMOS electronics
Experiments, Theory and Simulation
Quantum error correction and mitigation
Quantum software and algorithms
Innovation Talk and Fireside Chat
A notable highlight was the innovation talk by Himadri Majumdar from SemiQon, who discussed emerging trends and innovations in the field. Following the talk, a fireside chat with Himadri Majumdar moderated by Arianna Nigro and Santhanu Panikar Ramanandan provided young researchers with the opportunity to engage directly with Majumdar, fostering a rich dialogue on career development and industry insights.
Science Communication Talk, Fireside Chat and NCCR SPIN Programs for Young Researchers
Carsten Welsch delivered an engaging talk on science communication, focusing on how themes from Star Wars can be used to captivate and inspire diverse audiences. This was followed by a fireside chat moderated by Marie Le Dantec and Carmen Pietropaolo. After the chat, Carmen Pietropaolo gave a presentation on the ongoing and upcoming programs at NCCR SPIN aimed at young researchers, as well as the outreach activities planned for the Year of Quantum Science and Technology.
Networking and Outdoor Activities
The meeting also featured two scenic hikes in the Swiss Alps: a panoramic hike in Bever-Spinas (Val Bever) and a more challenging hike in Muottas da Schlarigna. These activities provided attendees with a unique environment to network and discuss collaborative opportunities outside the formal sessions.
Poster Sessions and Social Events
Poster sessions were interspersed throughout the meeting, offering participants the chance to present their latest research findings and receive feedback from peers. The event also included an evening reception and a conference dinner, which further facilitated networking and collaboration among the attendees.
Conclusion and Awards
The meeting concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions in various categories.
Excellent Paper Award
Phase-Driving Hole Spin Qubits, Stefano Bosco, Simon Geyer, Leon C. Camenzind, Rafael S. Eggli, Andreas Fuhrer, Richard J. Warburton, Dominik M. Zumbühl, J. Carlos Egues, Andreas V. Kuhlmann, Daniel Loss, Phys. Rev. Lett. 131, 197001 (Nov. 2023).
Art and Science Contest Awards
Scientific: object of study, Jury and Public Prizes
Arianna Nigro and Nicolas Forrer (University of Basel), “Fantastic Wires and where to find them”
·People, Places of Science and Scientific Art, Jury and Public Prizes
Inga Seidler and Lisa Sommer (IBM Research Zürich), ”'I'm alive!' - Schrödinger’s Cat”
The closing session underscored the collaborative spirit and innovative achievements celebrated throughout the event.
Overall, the fourth Annual Meeting of NCCR SPIN fostered significant scientific exchange inspiring future advancements in spin-based quantum technology.