Lumami (Nagaland): A researcher from Nagaland University has achieved a breakthrough in quantum technology by replicating fractal patterns found in nature—such as snowflakes, tree branches and neuron networks—in the quantum world, a development seen as significant for India's National Quantum Mission.

The study, conducted by Dr Biplab Pal, Assistant Professor at the Department of Physics, School of Sciences, has been published in the international peer-reviewed journal Physica Status Solidi - Rapid Research Letters, and was featured on the cover of its latest issue.

The research demonstrates how naturally inspired fractal geometries can be applied in quantum systems, opening up possibilities in molecular fractal-based nanoelectronic devices, quantum algorithms and information processing, and quantum memory through the Aharonov-Bohm caging effect.

Congratulating the researcher, Vice-Chancellor of Nagaland University Prof. Jagadish K Patnaik said the work highlights “a new pathway where fractal geometries can contribute meaningfully to the development of future quantum devices and algorithms.”

Explaining the study, Dr Pal said, “Fractals are naturally occurring patterns that repeat themselves at different scales. Using quantum mechanics, I simulated how electrons behave under a magnetic field within such fractal systems. This shows that non-crystalline, amorphous materials can also be effectively used to design nanoelectronic quantum devices.”

The findings expand the scope of materials that can be harnessed for quantum technologies, positioning Nagaland University among a select group of Indian institutions contributing to global quantum research.