International Exchange Award – Semiconductor quantum measurement exchange

Nicholas Collins with the dilution refrigerator at the Copenhagen centre for quantum devices in the Niels Bohr Institute

Nicholas Collins a Research Associate at the University of Manchester was awarded an M4QN award to visit Will Lawrie at the Niels Bohr Institute. The visit took place from 9-13 March 2026.

Semiconductor quantum measurement exchange

During the visit Nicholas observed and helped with the initial testing of a Ge/SiGe/Ge quantum dot device. They used the radio frequency reflectometry technique to test the plunger gate used for readout of the quantum state. To do this they had to write python scripts using the language QUA and Quantum Abstract Machine (QUAM) framework that interface with the quantum machine that runs the experiment. They had to write a script to control the RF frequency sent into the device and the bias voltage applied to the plunger gate. Through this they set up frequency scanning and voltage scanning to optimise the readout frequency and the voltage to switch on the plunger gate.
During this visit Nicholas was able to engage in discussions about how different semiconductor quantum measurement works as well as advantages and disadvantages of different quantum systems.

Benefits to the UK materials and quantum community

This visit helped facilitate engagement between the M4QN and the university of Copenhagen centre for quantum devices (QDeV). This also provides scientific outreach about the capabilities of the UK materials and quantum community. In additional the visit supported the development of a new generation of ‘Quantum Smart’ researchers.

Visit Outcomes

Professional development with regards to operation and control of quantum devices running at 19 mK within a dilution refrigerator systems. There is room for future visits as organisational goals are aligned with regard to the development of semiconductor quantum technology.