Grant: Alliance Grants

The goal of the "Advanced QUAntum applications via complex states in integrated and meta optics" (AQUA) Consortium is to advance the development of quantum communication, imaging, and sensing technologies based on integrated, scalable, and energy efficient photonic platforms and processing techniques. To this end, addressing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion principles, we have established a team of eleven researchers from five Canadian academic institutions across Quebec, Ontario, and Alberta, who are diverse in both career stages and nationalities. We have also identified eight Canadian and one international partner to foster the knowledge transfer and commercialization of our research outcomes. The deliverables of the AQUA Consortium include the development and commercialization of: i) complex photonic systems for high speed and broad bandwidth multiuser quantum communication networks; ii) integrated semiconductor quantum dots; iii) nanostructured metamaterials for advanced quantum imaging; as well as iv) novel quantum sensing and imaging modalities based on Terahertz radiation, meta optics, and single-photon cameras. The anticipated impacts of the AQUA research consortium over 5 years will be: (1) downstream testing and validation of concepts and methodologies for quantum communication, imaging, and sensing applications, including the commercialization of technologies featuring performances beyond those currently available; and (2) improving Canada's international positioning in the use of quantum photonics for real-life applications, including but not limited to their use for a quantum-secure internet and for enhanced medical diagnostics. The AQUA Consortium will train highly qualified personnel with extensive and versatile knowledge in quantum communication, imaging, and sensing, as well as in the commercialization of the products developed in the project. These efforts will help to establish a skilled workforce in Canada, as well as to significantly impact the ongoing product development and commercialization endeavours of our non-academic partners.