Quantum Millimeter-Wave Optomechanical Circuits
Prof. Brad Hauer
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo
Thursday, December 3, 2026
4:00 p.m.
In-person: PHY 150
Abstract: The ability to prepare a macroscopic mechanical resonator into highly non-classical states of motion has potential applications in quantum metrology, quantum information, and tests of quantum mechanics itself. One promising method to generate such states is via the optomechanical interaction between an electromagnetic cavity and a mechanical resonator. In this talk, I will give a brief introduction to cavity optomechanics and describe how this interaction can be used to create non-classical superposition states of motion. I will then discuss our efforts to realize such an interaction using a superconducting millimeter wave LC circuit with a mechanically compliant capacitor plate. Finally, I will highlight our recent efforts to improve this system to the point where it can be used to generate non-classical mechanical states.