Research Topics at the department of
Integrated Circuits

Energy efficiency is currently more relevant than ever. Battery-powered devices like mobile phones and tablet computers, and especially the group of “wearable devices” create new challenges for integrated circuits and systems. Despite higher computing power of embedded processors, larger screens and higher throughput of wireless connections, the time of usage has to remain constant at least. In addition, applications such as pervasive computing require sensor systems with “always-on” functionality, which can be achieved only by extremely low power consumption of sensors for light, acceleration, location, orientation, sound and image. A combination of the topics radio, sensors and power management (especially in terms of energy harvesting) results in the field of sensor networks, also known under the slogan Internet-of-Things (IoT).

Research Topics at the department of
Quantum Computing

The QuICK team pursues an interdisciplinary research agenda at the interface between computer science (algorithms & computational complexity), physics (quantum information & quantum technologies) and applied math (convex geometry & high dimensional probability theory). Broadly speaking, we aspire to develop efficient and simple solutions for important algorithmic challenges that work in practice, but also come with rigorous mathematical underpinning. While our core focus is quantum learning and quantum algorithms, applications in wireless communication,  randomized linear algebra, imaging, the math of voting and electronic design automation are also within our portfolio.

As a general rule, we value quality over quantity, try to stay clear of inflated claims and avoid overhyping. While we are true believers in the ultimate potential of quantum technologies, we are also aware of the broader context and the challenges that still await us. As Richard’s mentor and friend John Preskill put it in his 2024 Bell-prize lecture: “This won’t be fast or easy, but it’s going to be fun!”

“Everything should be as simple as possible, but not simpler.”,
Albert Einstein