Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

Semiconductors enabled the first quantum revolution, representing the advent of technologies that exploit the properties of quantum-confined electrons. These include integrated circuits, lasers, optical displays, and more, technologies that have had a dramatic impact on the way we live and work. The second quantum revolution promises a whole host of new technologies such as sensors (for medicine, clean-tech, ground surveying), low-noise imaging, secure communications, as well as quantum computing (for materials discovery, data management, financial analysis). Technologies in the second quantum revolution would leverage the ability to control additional quantum properties such as spin polarization and quantum entanglement. The realization of such technologies requires advances in our ability to control quantum states and the discovery of new materials with engineerable quantum properties. The Ultrafast Quantum Control group uses advanced spectroscopy techniques to study semiconductor materials of interest for applications in quantum science and technology. We are working to develop semiconductor quantum emitters, which are sources of single photons, the smallest unit of energy in light. Among other applications, such sources are required for quantum cryptography, which will secure our banking and other sensitive information over the internet in a post-quantum world. Our group is also advancing the understanding of 2D semiconducting materials, which are single-monolayer-thick solids whose unique properties will enable ground-breaking advances in low-power electronics, lasers, solar cells, and quantum computers. To support the development of these technologies, our research aims to: (i) gain insight into the physical properties and the excitations that govern the dynamic behavior in response to pulsed laser excitation; (ii) demonstrate control over these excitations using femtosecond optical pulses; and (iii) interrogate engineered modifications to material properties. The instrument at the heart of these techniques is an ultrafast laser source. These RTI funds will be used to support the purchase of a state-of-the-art optical parametric amplifier laser system that produces the femtosecond laser pulses required to enable this research. Our research program in ultrafast spectroscopy and quantum control provides an excellent training ground for highly qualified personnel. Our projects involve custom-built setups at the cutting-edge of optics, imparting an exceptionally high level of technical skills. This prepares our trainees for careers in the photonics and semiconductor industries, with over 400 Canadian companies. Our research program will also provide essential trainees for the emerging quantum sector, for which the urgent need for talent has been identified as one of the primary obstacles to maintaining Canada's leadership position.