Quantum Sensing & Communications
Quantum sensing and communications at the forefront of the exploitation of quantum technologies.
This research area focuses on the development and application of quantum technologies for sensing, metrology, control, and secure communications. It covers high-fidelity quantum control and information processing in trapped-ion platforms, combining laser- and microwave-based approaches with advanced modeling and data analysis tools. It also includes the development of quantum sensing and metrology platforms based on solid-state, atomic, photonic, and optomechanical systems, including the use of highly entangled states for quantum metrology under realistic, noisy conditions, enabling high-precision measurements under realistic conditions, with a strong emphasis on practical applications and technology transfer. In addition, the area addresses quantum communications, with particular focus on the integration of quantum key distribution in existing telecommunication infrastructures and the development of scalable, reliable, and quantum-safe networks, as well as high precision time and frequency distribution.
Research lines
Quantum optics, quantum control, complex systems modeling, and advanced data analysis methods
This research line explores quantum-enhanced strategies, including the use and generation of non-classical states of light, such as broadband high-brightness squeezed vacuum, as fundamental quantum optics tools for advanced sensing and communication systems. It also focuses on the development of methods for the modeling and control of quantum systems, with particular emphasis on high-fidelity quantum information processing in trapped-ion platforms. This includes the use of both laser- and microwave-based approaches, supported by detailed radiation pattern modeling. In addition, it develops machine learning architectures and Bayesian statistical methods for the analysis of complex experimental datasets, bridging theory and experiment and enabling the characterization of quantum platforms under realistic conditions.
Quantum sensors development for their use in different application scenarios driven by end-users’ necessities.
This research line focuses on the development and application of quantum sensing and metrology platforms for high-precision measurements under realistic conditions. It includes solid-state and atomic systems, such as nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond, silicon-carbide devices, and Rydberg atoms, as well as photonic and optomechanical platforms, and the use of highly entangled states for quantum metrology under realistic, noisy conditions, enabling high-precision measurements. These systems enable the detection of magnetic and electric fields, temperature, and electromagnetic radiation with high sensitivity, addressing applications in areas such as industry, biomedicine, and environmental monitoring. In parallel, the line explores quantum-enhanced measurement strategies and develops compact quantum sensors based on specialty optical fibers and other platforms, aimed at accelerating the adoption of these technologies.
Towards quantum-safe communications: infrastructure for quantum key distribution, time and frequency distribution, and communication networks.
This research line targets the study of quantum-safe communications. Although new cryptographic protocols like post-quantum cryptography are already available and standardized, the main focus is on the practical use of quantum key distribution. This includes its integration into traditional optical communication networks with co-propagation with data channels, multi-domain issues in the vertical and horizontal domains, and time and frequency signals. It also focuses on reliable and resilient quantum key distribution networks, extending their reach through hybrid solutions and improving secure relay privacy. Additionally, it explores new quantum enabled high precision time and frequency distribution.