Simulation Software for Modelling Quantum Light Sources

Quantum photonics is an emergent field of technology with the potential to revolutionise science and day-to-day life alike. It is anticipated that it will usher in an exciting era of ultra-secure communication, powerful super-fast computers and vastly increased data storage. These advancements are all based on the premise of developing single-photon sources: a type of source of light characterised by the ability to emit one photon at a time. Semiconductor quantum dots (nanometre-sized structures made up of a judicious blend of semiconductor materials) are atom-like systems that are proving to be attractive candidates for single-photon sources. However, they operate at very low temperatures requiring liquid helium cooling, which is a major drawback. In this project, we will apply our unique simulation software for prediction of the interaction of light pulses with quantum nanostructures to design, build and optimise integrated nitride single-photon sources that can operate at temperatures in excess of 200 K reachable by inexpensive and convenient on-chip thermoelectric cooling. By applying our software to this cutting-edge quantum technology area, we aim to prove its predictive power and reliability in designing quantum-optical devices. This will be an important step on the road to developing an indispensable toolkit for quantum photonics research and engineering.