South West Quantum Dot Quantum Technologies Project

Background

Quantum dots (QD) are solid-state quantum emitters, often known as “artificial atoms”. This solid-state technology has much to offer to Quantum Technologies, which aim to use quantum properties of particles to perform information processing. In order to address and control these QDs, they are embedded in micron-sized photonic circuits, which make use of the established semiconductor fabrication technology, and optical fibre interconnects offer a viable route to long-range scalable technologies.

Single photons from QD can be used to send absolutely secure messages and therefore may form the basis of future internet security. The physics we will learn from advancing the understanding of these semiconductor materials on the nanoscale will pave the way for future semiconductor devices using advanced materials technology.

Project summary

The community had previously had Initiator funding which helped identify quantum dot research as a promising area for collaboration across GW4. Therefore, they used Accelerator funds to employ six PDRAs to coordinate and facilitate research to create a blueprint for practical quantum dot based quantum photonic technologies. The funds also enabled several research visits for collaborations across the working packages, and the community held four meetings to discuss the details and progress of the project. A final workshop with the wider South West Quantum Technologies Group (formed during the Initiator award) allowed broader discussions on GW4 research in this area. The community produced several publications and reports over the Accelerator award and applied for follow up funding.