Prize: Fellowship awarded competitively
Devices exploiting the principles of quantum mechanics can revolutionize the way we communicate, compute and measure. For example, communication links based on the exchange of single photons can generate secret encryption keys, detecting the presence of possible eavesdroppers. As for classical communication networks, quantum networks require local memories and processing units to store and process information. MOSQUITO investigates the physics related to the demonstration of a portable multi-qubit quantum networking node based on a compact and scalable silicon carbide (SiC) device. The device enables efficient storage of optical quantum states onto nuclear spins at cryogenic temperature, preserves them up to ambient conditions and is accessible at room temperature. The envisioned integrated device operates in the near-infrared optical region (close to telecom wavelength) and embeds for the first time spintronic, electronic and photonic functionalities on a single platform compatible with standard industrial processing. This break-through is enabled by the unique properties of silicon carbide, which features colour centres with excellent spin coherence, a bright spin/photon interface and established growth and nano-fabrication techniques. MOSQUITO will open the way to integrated quantum repeaters compatible with telecom networks. Additionally, it will lay the foundations for portable quantum networking nodes, a technology that could facilitate real-world deployment of quantum-enhanced communication security.