A robust framework for quantum computation using quasi-hidden molecular degrees of freedom

We discuss a novel approach to quantum information processing with molecules based on molecular degrees of freedom which are isolated from the environment as well as from the rest of the molecule. Such a degree of freedom can provide long-term quantum storage even in a noisy environment, and provides an independent protected quantum memory while quantum operations are performed between the rest of the molecule and external systems. We present several possibilities for realizing a quasi-hidden degree of freedom in a molecule, and discuss a number of examples for using such a degree of freedom in practice. Using quasi-hidden degrees of freedom could substantially improve the prospects for a molecule-based quantum computer.