Studies how quantum information can survive noise, combining rigorous limits on quantum memories with error-correction theory and research connected to physical qubit architectures.
arXiv / New Journal of PhysicsarXiv / Reviews of Modern PhysicsTerhal’s work asks which kinds of protection quantum information can actually obtain from a physical system. A rigorous limitation on passive stabilizer-code memories clarifies what some architectures cannot provide automatically. Her broader work on quantum error correction explains the active codes, thresholds and decoding strategies used to pursue reliable storage and computation. This combination of constructive theory and carefully stated limits makes her research valuable for judging hardware proposals without confusing a promising design with proven resilience.
QuTecharXiv / New Journal of PhysicsarXiv / Reviews of Modern PhysicsThe work behind the recognition
Work, in context- 2009
Limits on passive stabilizer-code memories
With Sergey Bravyi, Terhal proved a no-go theorem for self-correcting quantum memories based on geometrically local stabilizer codes in one and two dimensions. The theorem constrains a specified class of models, rather than every conceivable quantum memory.
Co-author of the theorem with Sergey Bravyi.
Source-supported recordarXiv / New Journal of Physics - 2015
A framework for quantum memories
Terhal’s review brought together stabilizer and subsystem codes, fault-tolerance thresholds, decoding and passive-memory approaches. It connected the mathematical structure of error correction with the requirements of storing quantum information in physical systems.
Sole author of the cited quantum-memory review.
Source-supported recordarXiv / Reviews of Modern Physics
Keep in perspective
The no-go theorem is presented with its stabilizer-code and dimensional assumptions; it is not a universal impossibility claim.
The evidence map
Both views link each contribution to its sources. Choose a contribution on the map or read them all in the list.
Limits on passive stabilizer-code memories
A no-go theorem for a two-dimensional self-correcting quantum memory based on stabilizer codes
Supports: Co-authorship, geometrically local stabilizer-code assumptions and low-dimensional memory limitation; journal publication 2009.
Published 2008 · Checked 19 Sept 2026Credit & limits: Co-author of the theorem with Sergey Bravyi.
Read the full contribution| Contribution | Evidence & what it supports | Credit & limits |
|---|---|---|
| Limits on passive stabilizer-code memories2009 | Primary paperA no-go theorem for a two-dimensional self-correcting quantum memory based on stabilizer codes Co-authorship, geometrically local stabilizer-code assumptions and low-dimensional memory limitation; journal publication 2009. Published 2008 · Checked 19 Sept 2026 | Co-author of the theorem with Sergey Bravyi. |
| A framework for quantum memories2015 | Primary paperQuantum Error Correction for Quantum Memories Authorship and review of codes, thresholds, decoding and quantum memories; journal publication 2015. Published 2013 · Checked 19 Sept 2026 | Sole author of the cited quantum-memory review. |
Follow the evidence
3 sourcesPrimary papers, institutional records and attributed announcements. Each source supports the claims linked above.
- QuTechInstitutional record
Terhal Group
Current group leadership and research on error correction, superconducting qubits and quantum algorithms.
Checked 19 Sept 2026 - arXiv / New Journal of PhysicsPrimary paper
A no-go theorem for a two-dimensional self-correcting quantum memory based on stabilizer codes
Co-authorship, geometrically local stabilizer-code assumptions and low-dimensional memory limitation; journal publication 2009.
Published 2008 · Checked 19 Sept 2026 - arXiv / Reviews of Modern PhysicsPrimary paper
Quantum Error Correction for Quantum Memories
Authorship and review of codes, thresholds, decoding and quantum memories; journal publication 2015.
Published 2013 · Checked 19 Sept 2026