In this episode of The Quantum Divide, host Dan welcomes Can Knaut from Harvard University, a doctoral researcher working in the lab of Mikhail Lukin, a prominent figure in the field of neutral atoms. Can shares insights into his academic journey, which took a unique turn from business and economics in Switzerland to experimental quantum physics at ETH Zurich and eventually led him to Harvard.

The discussion centres around Can's research on quantum networks, particularly a recently published paper detailing the entanglement of two non-local qubits using a single photon in the network. This achievement, realized in collaboration with Amazon Web Services, marks a significant advancement in the field. Can explains the innovative method used to store entanglement and provide memory, setting the stage for practical applications of quantum networks.

Can provides an overview of his day-to-day work in the Lukin lab, emphasizing the collaborative environment and the importance of both theoretical and experimental approaches. He highlights the benefits of being part of a large, diverse team and the support provided by the Harvard Quantum Initiative, which fosters interdisciplinary research and education in quantum science.

Listeners will gain an understanding of the use of silicon vacancy centres in diamond nanophotonic systems and the unique properties that make these systems ideal for quantum information tasks. Can also touches on the broader implications of quantum networks, such as secure communication and the potential to link smaller quantum processors into more powerful quantum computers.

Tune in to hear about the latest advancements in quantum networks, the collaborative efforts driving this research forward, and the future possibilities this technology holds.