Nanoscale photonic devices to store, process, and transfer quantum information

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Currently, quantum photonic devices are being developed for secure quantum communication, whereby single photons are used to distribute an encrypted key to ensure secure information transfer by applying the laws of quantum physics. However, sending single photons over long distances is extremely challenging since photons get lost in data transmission by being absorbed in optical fibers via classical communication channels. Due to this transmission loss, quantum information can only be distributed over relatively short distances, between nearby cities. To extend the distance that secure quantum information can travel, to thousands of kilometers, new quantum photonic device technologies are needed. In addition, since it is not possible to amplify quantum signals in the same manner as classical signals, a quantum repeater (a device that repeats a quantum signal) is the most realistic device to achieve long distance quantum communication. Secure distribution of quantum information over longer distances will impact government, military, banking institutions, businesses and everyone who needs to safeguard their sensitive and personal data.****This research program will develop tunable quantum light sources using photonic nanowires for the on-demand generation of entangled photon pairs, meaning that only single pairs are created every time they are needed, potentially offering unprecedented security over current quantum communication systems. A major challenge that will be addressed in this proposal is bringing two remote entangled sources to the same energy. Specifically, this new technology will make it possible to demonstrate the first working node of a quantum repeater.****The program will also focus on developing new technology to interface single electrons (where quantum information is stored and processed) with single photons (where quantum information is transmitted), and to scale-down the manipulation of light at the single photon level from a large-scale optical laboratory setting to a single chip compatible with existing fabrication technology used in computer processors and memories. This will potentially be used as scalable and compact systems for photonic interfaces on a cryogenic quantum computer to calculate problems that are impossible to solve using present-day computers.****The highly qualified personnel within Dr. Reimer's research program will emerge with advanced research training in quantum information science and with the unique skills necessary to work in the emerging quantum industry. Their training will include hands-on experience in cutting-edge nanofabrication of quantum devices, advanced measurement techniques in quantum optics at the single photon level and quantum transport at the single electron level, and by using Dr. Reimer's network in industry they will gain expertise in translating fundamental quantum research into real-world applications.**