The Quantum Collective - Gabriel Araneda Machuca
The Quantum Collective: The people behind the science
Gabriel Araneda Machuca is a Senior Postdoctoral Researcher based at the University of Oxford, where his work is focused on ion trap quantum computing.
Image: John Cairns / University of Oxford
What are you currently working on?
Currently, my main project is focused on developing a distributed quantum computer based on trapped ions. Our aim is to build a universal quantum computer that can be connected to other identical devices using photonic entanglement in a scalable manner. So far, we have successfully demonstrated the remote entanglement between separate quantum computers and used it to showcase some quantum communication protocols. Additionally, we have shown how this device could be useful for the future of atomic clocks. As we add more features to our device, the possibilities for new experiments increase, making it very exciting to work on this unique device.
I also have several side projects, including developing new entangling mechanisms, understanding the fundamentals of spontaneous emission, and finding ways to capture as many photons emitted by an atom as possible.
At home, I am working on creating an orchard that can survive the fast-changing weather of Oxford and learning how to bake different kinds of bread.
Describe a typical day
On a typical day, I wake up at 8 am, have breakfast while browsing the arXiv quantum physics section, and then cycle to the university. I have a coffee with whoever is in the coffee room, and depending on the day, I either spend my time in the lab or in the office. I try to assist our students with their work and plan for our upcoming projects. Lately, I have spent most of my time making a big, complex laser work. My lab work includes running experiments, doing optics, fixing electronics, programming, designing mechanics, and building things. My office days consist of editing drafts, reading papers, refereeing papers, communicating with collaborators, and making purchases. Overall, I prefer my lab days.
During lunchtime, I eat with my colleagues from the ion trap group. It is enjoyable because we get to have a relaxed conversation about work and everything else with students and other postdocs. In the afternoon, I return to work. I typically go home at 6 pm and, when possible, try to forget about work until the next morning.
If you had an entire day at your disposal (not at work), what would be your ideal way to spend it?
If I had an entire day to myself, not at work, my ideal way to spend it would be cycling around Oxfordshire on a sunny day. Road cycling is great here with many quiet roads and small pretty towns.
What is your favourite place or thing about being in Oxford?
My favourite thing about Oxford is the hot summer days when the whole town is outside. You can go to the University parks, and everyone is doing something different. I love those days, and it's even better when you can get into the river Cherwell, and everyone is happy.
Plan B: what would you be if you weren’t doing the job you are currently doing?
As for Plan B, if I weren't doing my current job, I would like to be one of those influencers who get paid for going on holidays around the world, but without the social media part.
What discovery would you like to see in your lifetime?
Anything that could reverse climate change.
