We are an interdisciplinary (experimental and theoretical) research group in the Institute for Quantum Science and Technology at the University of Calgary. Our research is focused on the reversible quantum interface between the superconducting circuits and quantum optical systems. In our lab, we are interested in developing quantum communication technology that is integrable with superconducting processors for building large-scale quantum networks. Additionally, we are actively working on non-invasive quantum sensing/imagining techniques for applications involving fragile and photodegradable materials.

Projects

Here at IQST we have two main research directions: (1) quantum coherence and quantum interface in the electro-and optomechanical systems, (2) Superconducting circuit quantum electrodynamics (CQED), and (3) quantum sensing and imaging.

(1) Electro-optomechanical systems

Electro or optomechanics is a rapidly growing field of research that is concerned with the interaction between a mechanical resonator and the radiation pressure of electromagnetic field. The optomechanical coupling is widely employed for a large variety of applications, more commonly as a sensor for the detection of weak forces and small displacements or an actuator in integrated electrical, optical, and optoelectronical systems. You can find more information about optomechanical systems in this review paper. In our group, we use electromechanical to study the quantum coherence and use them for bidirectional photon conversion between optical and microwave domains.

During my postdoc at Fink’s group, we realized the long-standing prediction that a parametrically driven mechanical oscillator can generate strong quantum field correlations. We observed stationary emission of path-entangled microwave radiation from a micromachined silicon nanostring oscillator.

We experimentally demonstrated an on-chip magnetic-free circulator based on reservoir-engineered electromechanical interactions. This mechanical-based circulator is compact, its silicon-on-insulator platform is compatible with both superconducting qubits and silicon photonics, and its noise performance is close to the quantum limit.

The mechanical-based circulator can also be used to control the flow of thermal noises and heat in quantum devices. Viewing an optomechanical platform as a cascaded system we showed that one can ultimately control the direction of the flow of thermal noise.

(2) Superconducting CQED

We are interested in study the quantum phenomena in superconducting circuits:

Manipulation and readout of the superconducting qubits: The realization of quantum information processing in the laboratory requires extremely fast and precise quantum measurements of the qubits. We aim to show how an amplified interferometer can be used to enhance the quality of a dispersive qubit measurement, such as one performed on a superconducting transmon qubit, using homodyne detection on an amplified microwave signal.

Nonlinear phase dynamics in the photonic junction: The coupling between two nonlinear resonators opens up the possibility to observe the nonlinear phase dynamics and study the two-mode Bose-Hubbard model in quantum circuits. We study the collective dynamics of a driven two-mode Bose-Hubbard model in a photonic Josephson interaction regime.

Remote entanglement distribution and stabilization between multiple qubits: The main goal of this project is to implement the entanglement distribution and stabilization protocols between two or many superconducting qubits that are coupled to distant cavities. The coupling between cavities is mediated and controlled via Josephson based three-wave mixing device that generates a delocalized two-mode squeezed state between the remote cavities. Combination of this with in situ quantum-limited amplifiers allows the remote entanglement distribution between many superconducting qubits well suited for modular quantum computing in form of a quantum network.

(3) Quantum Sensing and Imaging

Quantum Scanner: We aim to experimentally develop and theoretically study high-resolution non-invasive quantum sensors and implement a quantum scanner’s proof-of-concept for imaging/sensing and clinical applications. The planned research-development stages will include detailed experimental investigations and validation of ultrasensitive quantum sensors for better understanding and diagnosis of diseases and identifying more targeted therapeutic strategies. Our approach relies on exposing biological samples to very weak optical light in which instead of probing a biological sample with intense radiation, one could retrieve the same or even better visibilities by using a small number of quantum-correlated photons. This fundamental distinction will lead to next-generation non-invasive quantum technologies for applications involving fragile and photodegradable materials. We expect that the development of these technologies will be unique in Canada and worldwide, and it will have a direct impact on the health industry. 

Facial recognition and Automotive industry: Quantum technologies for imaging and detection of classical objects can find a wide range of applications beyond medical diagnosis. Ultimately, these technologies can also be used extensively in the Automotive industry and pattern recognition. In fact, our long-term plans involve the extension of quantum sensing technology to these areas.

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Funding