Organic masers for microwave quantum optics

Portable, chip-scale devices capable of detecting single photons at microwave frequencies would open up many new application including quantum-enhanced radar and more sensitive (thus faster) form or magnetic resonance spectroscopy and imaging. To date, the only devices capable of detecting single microwave photons require bulky, power-hungry cryogenic refrigerators, ultra-high vacuum systems and/or magnets. By exploiting stimulated emission, a maser can swiftly build up a detectable avalanche of photons from just a single injected photon. Based purely on the quantum-mechanical flipping of static spins, masers avoid the noise processes that plague electronic (semiconductor) amplifiers. Solid-state masers operating at room temperature have been demonstrated in recent years, though only as oscillators. With respect to low-noise amplification at the single-photon level, optically-pumped masers incorporating organic molecular crystals offer advantages over all known types, especially in pulsed (= radar) mode. The PhD student will focus on the discovery and demonstration of novel organic maser materials optimized for single-photon detection. As a well-rounded PhD project in "quantum materials engineering", her/his work will encompass computer-based molecular design, the purification of chemicals, the growth of organic maser crystals, the construction of microwave instrumentation, the characterization of each crystal's spin-dynamics using EPR spectroscopy, and thereupon the construction of practical demonstrators.

The main impact of the proposed Hub will be in training quantum engineers with a skillset to understand cutting-edge quantum research and a mindset toward developing this innovation, and the entrepreneurial skills to lead the market. This will grow the UK capacity in quantum technology. Through our programme, we nurture the best possible work force who can start new business in quantum technology. Our programme will provide multi-level skills training in quantum engineering in order to enhance the UK quantum technologies landscape at several stages. Through the training we will produce quantum engineers with training in innovation and entrepreneurship who will go into industry or quantum technology research positions with an understanding of innovation in quantum technology, and will bridge the gap between the quantum physicist and the classical engineer to accelerate quantum technology research and development. Our graduates will have to be entrepreneurial to start new business in quantum technology. By providing late-stage training for current researchers and engineers in industry, we will enhance the current landscape of the quantum technology industry. After the initial training composed of advanced course works, placements and short projects, our students will act as a catalyzer for collaboration among quantum technology researchers, which will accelerate the development of quantum technology in the UK. Our model actively encourages collaboration and partnerships between Imperial and national quantum tehcnology centres and we will continue to maintain the strong ties we have developed through the Centre for Doctoral Training in order to enhance our on-going training provisions. The Hub will also have an emphasis on industrial involvement. Through our new partnerships students will be exposed to a broad spectrum of non-academic research opportunities. An important impact of the Hub is in the research performed by the young researchers, PhD students and junior fellows. They will greatly enhance the research capacity in quantum technology. Imperial College has many leading engineers and quantum scientists. One of the important outcomes we expect through this Hub programme is for these academics to work together to translate the revolutionary ideas in quantum science to engineering and the market place. We also aim to influence industry and policy makers through our outreach programme in order to improve their awareness of this disruptive technology.