Peter K. Mcmahon is a distinguished figure in the field of applied physics and engineering, currently shaping the future of computation at Cornell University. As a faculty member in the School of Applied and Engineering Physics, his work is centered on exploring and engineering novel computational methods that transcend the limitations of conventional CMOS-based von Neumann processors. His research spans a fascinating range of topics, from quantum computing to photonic and neuromorphic computing, positioning him at the forefront of next-generation computing technologies.
Academic Journey and Early Career
Dr. McMahon’s impressive academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a Physics minor from Stanford University in 2014. His doctoral research delved into the intricacies of quantum information processing, specifically utilizing optically controlled spins in semiconductors. Prior to his doctoral studies, he honed his skills in instrumentation for radio astronomy and bioinformatics at the University of California, Berkeley. His foundational education was completed at the University of Cape Town, demonstrating a global academic trajectory. His time at Stanford was marked by prestigious accolades, including a Stanford Graduate Fellowship (2008–2011) and a Stanford Nano- and Quantum Science and Engineering Postdoctoral Fellowship (2015–2017), underscoring his early promise and exceptional talent in the field.
Research Focus: Beyond Von Neumann Architecture
The McMahon Lab at Cornell is a hub of innovation, dedicated to unraveling the physics of computation and forging new computational paradigms. The core mission is to engineer physical systems capable of performing computations in fundamentally different ways, offering significant advantages over current computing architectures. While quantum computation stands as a primary focus, the lab’s research scope extends to classical yet groundbreaking technologies like photonic computing and neuromorphic computing.
Quantum Computing Exploration
Professor McMahon’s research delves into diverse physical platforms for quantum information processing. These include:
- Spins in Semiconductor Devices: Investigating the quantum properties of spins within semiconductors for robust and scalable quantum computing.
- Superconducting Circuits: Exploring the potential of superconducting circuits as qubits, leveraging their unique quantum characteristics.
- Quantum-Optical Systems: Harnessing the power of light and photons to build quantum computers and communication networks.
Each of these platforms presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. The McMahon Lab is dedicated to exploring the fundamental physical limits of each approach and pushing the boundaries of experimental capabilities. Beyond hardware development, the lab is deeply involved in understanding the applications of quantum computers, both in the near-term era of noisy, intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) devices and the long-term vision of fault-tolerant quantum machines. Key areas of investigation include the potential of quantum computers to revolutionize optimization problems, quantum simulation, and machine learning algorithms.
Quantum simulation, initially envisioned by Richard Feynman, remains a cornerstone of the lab’s quantum computing research. The ability of quantum simulators to model strongly correlated systems, relevant to quantum chemistry and condensed-matter physics, holds immense promise for groundbreaking scientific discoveries and engineering advancements. This mirrors the transformative impact of conventional computational physics, but now with the enhanced power of quantum mechanics.
Classical Unconventional Computing
Complementing the quantum computing efforts, the McMahon Lab also explores classical unconventional computing technologies. Driven by intellectual curiosity and practical application, this research arm investigates how these emerging technologies can impact real-world computations, with a particular focus on optimization and machine learning tasks. This dual approach, encompassing both quantum and classical frontiers, positions Peter K. McMahon and his team at the very cutting edge of computational innovation.
Selected Publications: Groundbreaking Research
Professor McMahon’s prolific research output is reflected in numerous high-impact publications. A selection of his recent works includes:
- Microwave signal processing using an analog quantum reservoir computer: Exploring novel analog quantum computing approaches for signal processing. (Senanian et al., 2023)
- Image sensing with multilayer, nonlinear optical neural networks: Demonstrating the potential of optical neural networks for advanced image sensing applications. (Wang et al., Nature Photonics, 2023)
- Deep physical neural networks trained with backpropagation: Pioneering the development of deep physical neural networks trained using backpropagation algorithms. (Wright et al., Nature, 2022)
- An optical neural network using less than 1 photon per multiplication: Achieving ultra-energy-efficient computation in optical neural networks. (Wang et al., Nature Communications, 2022)
- A quantum annealer with fully programmable all-to-all coupling via Floquet engineering: Developing advanced quantum annealing architectures. (Onodera et al., npj Quantum Information, 2020)
- The Capacity of Quantum Neural Networks: Theoretical investigations into the capabilities of quantum neural networks. (Wright & McMahon, 2019)
- Experimental investigation of performance differences between Coherent Ising Machines and a quantum annealer: Benchmarking and comparing different quantum computing paradigms. (Hamerly et al., Science Advances, 2019)
- A fully programmable 100-spin coherent Ising machine with all-to-all connections: Demonstrating a significant advancement in coherent Ising machine technology. (McMahon et al., Science, 2016)
These publications exemplify the breadth and depth of Professor McMahon’s contributions to the field, spanning both theoretical and experimental domains of advanced computing.
Awards and Recognition: Celebrating Excellence
Professor McMahon’s groundbreaking work has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards and honors, including:
- IUPAP Early Career Scientist Prize for Applied Aspects on Laser Physics and Photonics (2022): Acknowledging his significant contributions to laser physics and photonics applications.
- Office of Naval Research Young Investigator Program Award (2022): Supporting his innovative research with potential naval applications.
- Sloan Research Award (2022): Recognizing his early-career achievements and potential as a research leader.
- Packard Fellowship in Science and Engineering (2021-2026): Providing substantial funding and recognition for his long-term research vision.
- CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholar (Quantum Information Science) (2020-2022): Integrating him into a global network of leading researchers in quantum information science.
- Google Quantum Research Award (2019-2020): Supporting his quantum computing research initiatives.
These accolades underscore the significant impact and recognition of Peter K. McMahon’s pioneering work in the scientific community.
Education: A Foundation of Expertise
- B.Sc. (Eng) Electrical and Computer Engineering; M.Sc. (Eng) Electrical Engineering; M.Sc. Computer Science, University of Cape Town (2003-2008)
- M.S. Electrical Engineering, Stanford University (2008-2010)
- Ph.D. Electrical Engineering (Physics minor), Stanford University (2010-2014)
- Postdoctoral Fellow, Applied Physics, Stanford University (2014-2019)
Professor McMahon’s comprehensive educational background in electrical engineering, computer science, and physics provides a robust foundation for his interdisciplinary research endeavors.
Peter K. McMahon in the News: Recent Highlights
Professor McMahon’s work and achievements are frequently featured in news outlets, highlighting the impact of his research.
Optica Names Peter McMahon the 2025 Adolph Lomb Medal Recipient
Peter McMahon has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Adolph Lomb Medal by Optica (formerly OSA), recognizing his outstanding contributions to the field of optics and photonics. This medal is a testament to his innovative research and leadership in the field. Read more about Optica Names Peter McMahon the 2025 Adolph Lomb Medal Recipient
Eleanor Richard ’25 named 2024 Optica Women Scholar: Recognizing Mentorship by Peter K. McMahon
Under the guidance of Professor David Muller and with mentorship from Professor Peter K. McMahon, Eleanor Richard ’25 was named a 2024 Optica Women Scholar. This highlights Professor McMahon’s role in nurturing the next generation of scientists. Read more about Eleanor Richard ’25 named 2024 Optica Women Scholar: “We are all capable of so much more than we believe.”
Optical Neural Networks for Image Processing Research by Peter K. McMahon
Optical neural networks hold promise for image processing: Research led by Peter K. McMahon
Cornell researchers, under the direction of Peter K. McMahon, have achieved a breakthrough in optical neural networks for image processing. This innovative technology has the potential to revolutionize image detection and analysis. Read more about Optical neural networks hold promise for image processing
Peter K. McMahon’s ongoing research and leadership promise to continue shaping the landscape of advanced computing, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in both quantum and classical domains. His dedication to innovation and education positions him as a key figure in the future of technology.
