Research summary
Quantum computers can be used to solve all sorts of complex problems in areas from drug discovery to weather forecasting to data encryption and supply chain logistics. Some day, it will be possible to use quantum computation-a new paradigm of computing based entirely on quantum mechanical first principles-to solve problems that are beyond the capabilities of any conventional computer. In other words, we will be able to achieve “quantum advantage.”
As Canada Research Chair in the Mathematics of Quantum Computation, Dr. Nadish de Silva’s goal is to arrive at a structural understanding of quantum advantage. He and his research team are working on a hypothesis that contextuality and non-locality-notions of quantum foundations-are key resources for enabling quantum advantage. Their work involves applying logical techniques to major open questions of quantum algorithms and complexity theory. The outcome will be the clear, formal delineation of computational advantage needed to fully exploit quantum computers.