Quantum Information for Precision Measurements

This project is about developing quantum information tools for precision measurements. It is based on a novel idea, which we developed together with our collaborators at Nottingham University. The central aspect is to use laser induced interactions to create entanglement in a controlled and relatively simple way. If successful it might bring radical simplifications to quantum information and metrology with ultracold atoms. Entanglement enhanced metrology is a rapidly growing field of research which owes its high impact to the prospect of beating current limits in precision measurement with implications ranging from fundamental tests to industrial applications. However, despite some prominent proof-of-principle experiments, classical schemes are still prevailing when it comes to the most precise measurement of given quantity. A particular aspect of this project will thus be the assessment of the suitability of the developed entanglement scheme for a real enhancement of precision.

A close collaboration with NPL will add world leading expertise in metrology research and put the project into direct industrial context with regards to metrology applications. In particular this collaboration will also open new perspectives for my development with regards to the strategic plans of the University.

In addition to the precision measurement application, the use of low-lying electronic states drastically limits the number of radiative decay channels opening an entire field of exciting opportunities to study dissipation-mediated entanglement. The prospect of robust entanglement as a resource not only for metrology, but also for quantum computation opens significant research and career opportunities beyond the duration of the grant.

The direct beneficiaries of this fundamental research project are the metrology and academic communities in the domains of precision measurements and quantum information. However, as precision metrology services are at the foundations of industrial production and many commercial products, there is also a medium-long term impact on the economy. This impact is highlighted by our collaboration partner NPL, which provides both a real-world test and a pathway to industry for the project.

The primary topic of the project is entanglement enhanced frequency metrology. The economic and societal impact of potentially resulting better time standards could be huge, as demonstrated by the technical advances linked to improved timekeeping. These include satellite navigation, network timing for high-speed broadband communication and synchronization of energy grids.

Secondary economic impacts might arise in the long term in quantum computation, where a good resource of entanglement promises to push progress.