Credits: 5EC
Prerequisites: Linear Algebra, Probability & Statistics, and Fundamentals of quantum information (Q101)
Motivation: Quantum communication offers unparalleled advantages over classical communication. Examples range from quantum key distribution that allows to the generation of secure encryption keys, improved clock synchronization on satellites, to the use of a quantum network to assemble small quantum computers into a larger quantum computing cluster.
Synopsis: In this class, you will learn the fundamentals of quantum information theory and quantum cryptography. The goal of quantum information theory is to determine how we can best protect quantum information from errors. It forms a crucial tool for building quantum communication networks. You will also learn the core techniques of quantum cryptography, enabling you to understand and implement quantum key distribution, as well as make an entry into current research in this field.
Aim: To learn the fundamental concepts underlying quantum communication and cryptography
Learning outcomes: The student will acquire:
- A good understanding of the fundamental concepts of quantum information theory
- A good understanding of the essential tools in quantum cryptpgraphy
- Insight into the differences between classical and quantum communication and cryptography
- Skill set required to follow the remainder of the quantum curriculum (Q301 – Quantum hardware and Q401 – Quantum electronics)
Lecturers: Dr Stephanie Wehner (QuTech, EWI)
Teaching method: The course will be taught in the form of a MOOC. For details see https://www.edx.org/course/quantum-cryptography-caltechx-delftx-qucryptox
Examination: Pass at EdX Exercises, Final exam determines 100% of the mark.
Contents: cq-states, distinguishing quantum states; information gain vs. disturbance: the gentle measurement lemma; encoding classical information into quantum states; quantum data compression; noisy quantum channels; quantum error-correction for communication; noisy channel coding: limits of sending classical information using quantum states: classical capacity, entanglement assisted capacity; noisy channel coding: limits of sending quantum information: quantum capacity, entanglement cost, the decoupling theorem; entanglement distillation; finite size entropy measures: min and max entropies; (quantum) randomness extraction; quantum uncertainty and the monogamy of entanglement; quantum key distribution (QKD); two-party quantum crytography; device independent QKD
Core text: Lecture notes and additional metrials, such as Nielsen and Chuang “Quantum computation and information”, Cambridge University Press, and Mark Wilde “Quantum information theory”, Cambridge University Press.