DESCRIPTION: An introduction to topological quantum computation, with an emphasis on the role played by braid group representations and knot/link invariants.
Instructor: Dr. Eric
Rowell. email: rowell@math.tamu.edu,
webpage: www.math.tamu.edu/~rowell. Office Blocker 510B
Place and Time: TBD TR 9:35-10:50am
Course Objectives: We will study
fundamental mathematical aspects of topological quantum computation. We
will explore questions such as: 1) What does a topological quantum
computer actually compute? 2) What are the quantum gates in this model?
3) How does this model compare with the "standard" quantum circuit
model?
Text/Resources: We will mostly follow these lecture notes (1604.06429) published in Rev. Colombiana Mat. 50 (2016) no. 2, 207-272. We may occationally refer to the survey (1705.06206) to appear in the Bull. of the AMS. Another shorter survey that may be useful is Journal of Physics: Conference Series 698 (2016) 012012.
Grading: Grading will be based on homework assignments and class presentations. Each student should present material in class at least once. There will be homework assigned and due periodically, at least 4 assignments over the course of the semester. Each homework will be weighted equally, and a presentation in class counts the same as each homework. Homework is graded on completion and correctness. The standard grading scale will be applied A=90+,B=80-89,C=70-79,D=60-69,F=0-59.
Weekly Schedule: The schedule of the course is
outlined as follows: The material in the lecture notes above will be
covered during weeks 1-14, and homework assignments/due dates will be
appropriately announced.
Exams: none
Course Policies:
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Policy Statement
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Academic Integrity Statement and Policy
“An Aggie does not lie, cheat or steal, or tolerate those who do.” For additional information, please visit: http://aggiehonor.tamu.edu.
Late work and Make-up policy
Late work will be only be accepted for a university excused absence, with a limit of 1 week: see student rule 7 http://student-rules.tamu.edu/
Copyright Policy: All printed materials disseminated in class or on the web are protected by Copyright laws. One photocopy (or printout from the web) is allowed for personal use. Multiple copies or sale of any of these materials is strictly prohibited.