Development of a Room Temperature Optical Quantum Memory

Abstract:
Within photonic based quantum technologies one of the most critical components identified is a quantum memory; a device which can store and retrieve an arbitrary quantum state at the single photon level. The development of such a memory would allow the creation of a vast number of quantum technologies ranging from the ability to synchronise processing steps in an optical based quantum computer, to the construction of a quantum repeater which would allow for perfect transmission of quantum states over arbitrary distances. My project will investigate the development and applications of a quantum memory based on a 3 level A-system using Raman scattering. The Raman memory is a single-mode memory that can selectively store a user-chosen temporal mode that is, a temporal pulse shape of a single photon. Temporal modes have been identified as promising basis states for quantum information processing, making the Raman memory an even more promising tool for future applications.

Quantum technologies promise a transformation of the fields of measurement, communication and information processing. They present a particular opportunity since they are disruptive technologies: not only do they offer a chance for rapid growth but they also allow lesser participants in a field (such as the UK in IT) to become major players through appropriate risk-taking and manpower development. Students graduating from the InQuBATE Skills Hub will have the right mindset to work in the industries where quantum technologies will be applied, and help to break down the traditional barriers between those sectors to make this transformation happen. They will have all the necessary technical and transferable skills, plus a network of contacts with our partners, their fellow cohort members and the academic supervisors.

Our commercial partners are keen to help our students realise their potential and achieve the impact we expect of them, through the training they offer and their contributions to the centre's research. They include companies who have already developed quantum technologies to products in quantum communication (Toshiba) and optimization (D-Wave), large corporates who are investing in quantum technology because they see its potential to transform their businesses in aerospace, defence, instrumentation and internet services (Lockheed Martin, Google,) and government agencies with key national responsibilities (NPL). We want to see the best communication of our students' research, so our students will benefit from the existing training programme set up with a leading scientific publisher (Nature Publishing Group); we also want to see more of the future companies that lead this field based the UK, so we have partnered with venture capital group DFJ Esprit to judge and mentor the acceleration of our students' innovations toward the market.