Transitioning Quantum Communication Devices into Telecommunication Infrastructures

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

The notion of something being `quantum' was once isolated to the labs of academia and maybe popular science books authored by Briane Greene. Decades of research progress have now extended quantum mechanical phenomena beyond the laboratory playground and to a position of inclusion with our modern society. The implications and fascination with quantum mechanical laws have now joined the conversation in sectors including national defence, cyber security, financial investing, popular culture and society's information lifeline, the internet. Over the last 30 years, the impact of the internet cannot be understated. Many of the implications and applications we benefit from could have never been foreseen. Similarly, a quantum network that runs in parallel to the classical internet would instigate a new wave of applications and enhancements. The quantum internet is a network capable of exploiting quantum phenomena over large distances and multiple locations. Possible applications include widespread and fully secure data encryption, global clock synchronization, and versatile imaging systems. More importantly, analogous to the outlook of the classical internet, the quantum internet will be a catalyst for many technological advances and innovations that have yet to be predicted. A quantum internet is a lofty goal demanding intense efforts. To be logistically and economically feasibility, such a complex system will need a smart design comprised of many specialized components. All of which must interface and integrate with each other and critically, telecommunication infrastructures. My research program addresses the scientific and technological issues that will make this transition possible. We focus on developing the robust and widely deployable quantum communication technologies that can comprise the future quantum internet. Nations across the globe have realized the importance and implications of a quantum internet and are committed to its development, even when weighed against a global pandemic. This includes the USA National Quantum Initiative Act (signed December 21, 2018), the Nederlands National Agenda for Quantum Technology and the Quantum Science Experiment Satellite launched in China. Canada is well-positioned to be a key player and leader in the global quantum ecosystem as we are home to multiple quantum powerhouse institutions (UWaterloo, UCalgary, UOttawa, NRC). The continual support of academic and industrial quantum programs will be vital as quantum communications technologies are now transitioning from a research field into an engineering discipline. This shift will trigger a large demand for highly qualified personal that are uniquely trained to work with quantum cryptographic tools and equipment. Furthermore, new training programs and degrees will need development to meet this oncoming personnel demand and to ensure the prosperity of Canada's emerging quantum technology sector.