See below for information about Special Topics courses taught by Professor Niu in the Computer Science department at UCSB. All courses are cross-listed for both undergraduate and graduate students!
Introduction to Quantum Computing Part I (CMPSC 190H / 292H)
This course provides a foundational introduction to quantum computing, starting from essential concepts in linear algebra and quantum mechanics, and progressing through quantum information, quantum protocols, and basic quantum algorithms. The course is designed to be accessible to students without previous exposure to quantum physics or advanced mathematics. It emphasizes both theoretical concepts and practical coding assignments using quantum simulators, thereby preparing students for real-world quantum computing applications.
Quantum Algorithms (CMPSC 190H / 292H)
Building directly upon Intro to Quantum Computing Part I (above), this course delves into advanced quantum algorithms, error correction techniques, practical quantum simulations, and quantum hardware implementations. It is tailored for students intending to pursue research or careers in quantum computing, providing practical experience through simulations and cloud-based quantum computing platforms. A key emphasis is placed on near-term quantum computing technologies, algorithms, and hands-on project work.
Quantum Control, Metrology, and Error Mitigation for Algorithm Deployment (CMPSC 293A)
After over 30 years of research and engineering in controllable quantum devices, we are at the cusp of discovering the first real-world applications for quantum computing systems. A critical element that connects high-level applications to low-level quantum system designs is quantum control and metrology. The first part of our class covers the fundamentals of quantum control and metrology in both digital and analog domains: Design and calibration of quantum gates, analog quantum operations, quantum state preparation, and measurement Estimation, characterization, and mitigation of environmental noise Synthesis of logical quantum circuits to physical quantum circuits for a given quantum hardware architecture We focus on three leading quantum computing systems and their quantum control and metrology methods: superconducting qubits, ion trap qubits, and neutral atom qubits. The second part of the class connects quantum control and metrology to the deployment of quantum algorithms on near-term quantum computers. We will review some of the most successful quantum algorithms deployed on real quantum hardware while focusing on the necessary classical and quantum error mitigation techniques. This course provides further opportunities to explore the new frontier of hardware-efficient and hardware-centric quantum algorithm design.
(Adapted from a semester-long course taught by Professor Niu Fall 2023 at University of Maryland)