Generalized transmon Hamiltonian for Andreev spin qubits

  1. Luka Pavešić,
  2. and Rok Žitko
We solve the problem of an interacting quantum dot embedded in a Josephson junction between two superconductors with finite charging energy described by the transmon (Cooper pair box)
Hamiltonian. The approach is based on the flat-band approximation of the Richardson model, which reduces the Hilbert space to the point where exact diagonalisation is possible while retaining all states that are necessary to describe the low energy phenomena. The presented method accounts for the physics of the quantum dot, the Josephson effect and the Coulomb repulsion (charging energy) at the same level. In particular, it captures the quantum fluctuations of the superconducting phase as well as the coupling between the superconducting phase and the quantum dot (spin) degrees of freedom. The method can be directly applied for modelling Andreev spin qubits embedded in transmon circuits in all parameter regimes, for describing time-dependent processes, and for the calculation of transition matrix elements for microwave-driven transmon, spin-flip and mixed transitions that involve coupling to charge or current degree of freedom.