Nanoscale sensing and actuation with quantum emitters in 2D and 3D semiconductors

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Precision measurements power scientific and technological progress, whether the intent is to navigate, coordinate, or diagnose and medicate. This is particularly true at the (sub)nanoscale where being able to probe relevant phenomena offers a wealth of opportunities-from monitoring biological processes in living cells for tailored diagnostic and therapeutics to measuring the chemical potential and transport of spin systems for low dissipation nanoelectronics. The aim of this research program is the development of a multimodal, quantum-enabled platform for nanoscale transduction. The platform is based on nano-transducers capable of both sensing and manipulating their surrounding environment with high sensitivity and spatial resolution. The nano-transducers are based on single-photon emitters in 3D and 2D semiconductor nanohosts, specifically nanodiamond and 2D hexagonal boron-nitride. The emitters are foreign atom-like inclusions embedded in the crystalline matrix of the nanohosts. They emit single photons of visible-to-near-infrared light, with intensity and spectral features dependent on external stimuli and tied to their quantum properties, e.g. their spin state. Detection, manipulation and actuation of the nano-transducers is optical, through a heavily modified, custom-built confocal/trapping setup which will be designed and built as part of the research program. It will combine optical trapping capabilities (for manipulation in 3D space), single photon spectroscopy (for imaging/detection) and microwave field control (for target sensing). The platform will be the workhorse for a series of investigations both fundamental and practical in biomedicine, environmental science and quantum optics. We will perform target imaging and nanothermometry measurements in biological environments with focus on the effect of heat stressors to, e.g., gene expression of heat shock proteins. We will investigate optical refrigeration via anti-Stokes laser excitation of quantum emitters in nanoparticles to, for instance, trigger/suspend biomolecular processes, or induce highly-localized water phase transitions (ice formation) at the micro and nano scales. We will build on our recent discovery of spin-defects in hexagonal boron-nitride and study their fundamental properties and their use as sensors in, e.g., nanoscale magnetometry. This program builds on CFI-supported infrastructure, with NSERC supported HQP and operating funds, and will be one-of-a-kind in Ontario and Canada. The platform and research program will benefit the country by expanding the national expertise in quantum-based sensing, and by fostering training of graduates for employment in a variety of fields-a top priority of Canada's innovation mission. Building upon Dr Bradac's extended network of partners, it will also grow local, national and international collaborations which will establish Canada's position in research areas ranging from nanomaterials to biomedicine and quantum metrology.