Professor David Lucas
Credit: Martin Small

David Lucas appointed Hooke Professor of Experimental Physics

Quantum information and computation
Atomic and Laser Physics

Professor David Lucas has been appointed Hooke Professor of Experimental Physics at the University of Oxford. Professor Lucas is a leading researcher in experimental quantum computing and has played a key role in driving the national quantum computing agenda through his successive roles in the national quantum computing hubs.

He has worked in the field of ion trapping for quantum computing for over 25 years, initially with colleagues Professors Andrew Steane and Derek Stacey. Prior to that, his research was on precision measurements to test fundamental physics, and on laser-cooled atoms in optical lattices. In recent years he and his group have worked on improving the precision of elementary quantum logic operations to the demanding levels required for quantum computing, and on quantum networking for applications in computing, communications and metrology.

The post sits within the Atomic and Laser Physics sub-department at the Department of Physics where Professor Lucas will be working alongside colleagues researching the interaction of light and matter over an enormous range of conditions from high-energy plasmas and ultra-fast X-rays, through quantum information and computation, quantum optics and ultracold atoms.

‘I am delighted to serve as the Hooke Professor in this extraordinary department,’ comments Professor Lucas. ‘The successes of the Oxford ion trap research group are down to the talent and hard work of the students, postdocs and colleagues whom I have the pleasure of working with, and I’m looking forward to being able to spend more time with them over the coming years.’

‘Oxford’s Department of Physics has a strong focus on quantum from leading the successive national quantum computing hubs to bringing together the Oxford Quantum Institute and introducing our Masters in Quantum Technology,’ comments Professor Andrew Boothroyd, Head of Department. ‘The Hooke professorship is key to our continuing to lead the way in quantum and we are delighted to see David take up this pivotal role. He is an exceptional physicist and a hugely valued member of the department and we are excited to see what the future brings.’