Detecting X-band diamond phononic resonators in the quantum regime

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Technologies whose properties are dependent on the quantum behaviour of our physical world are enabling new capabilities in communication, computing, and sensing. For example, single particles of light can link memories that encode information within the quantum states electrons-for example in their spin state-allowing ultra-secure sharing of information. A dream of quantum technology researchers is to connect large numbers of electron spins, which would open doors in many areas of quantum information processing. This ambitious goal is being held back by challenges in creating devices on chip that can link nanoscale spin-systems. The equipment described in this request is urgently required to advance a promising and rapidly emerging area of spin-based quantum technology: spin-optomechanics. This platform uses vibrations-phonons-to connect electron and nuclear spins whose quantum states are used to store and process information. The Barclay lab is a world leader in creating devices from diamond chips that underlie this technology. Lab HQP recently demonstrated optical control of high frequency mechanical vibrations that can modify the quantum state of electron spins of defects in the diamond crystal. This first ever demonstration was a major milestone. However moving to the next step-operating at a quantum level where single phonons can couple to single spins-has been limited by challenges in device performance and experimental capabilities. Operating these devices in such a quantum regime is a critical requirement for utilizing them in quantum information processing applications. During the past six months, HQP dramatically improved the performance of the lab's devices, and are now preparing to operate these best-in-class diamond "optomechanical crystals" at the quantum level for the first time. However, lacking a key piece equipment needed for optical detection of single phonons, they are unable to do so. This request for Research Tools and Instruments addresses this gap. Demonstrating this proposed experiment will establish Canada as the world leader in quantum spin-optomechanical systems. This project is being conducted in close competition with several formidable international research groups. Any delay in acquiring the equipment will cause the Barclay lab's current advantage to be lost and allow other researchers (e.g. at UCSB and Harvard) to catch up. This will severely diminish the impact of the work and negatively affect HQP outcomes. This equipment will be immediately used by approximately 10 HQP, with another 10 projected to benefit from it over the next five years, all of whom work in an inclusive and supportive environment that strives to reduce existing inequities in physics research.