Quantum sensing refers to the use of a quantum system to perform a measurement of a physical quantity. Such sensors utilize properties of quantum mechanics such as entanglement, quantum interference, and quantum state squeezing. This allows quantum sensors to detect minute changes in electric or magnetic fields, enabling precision measurements.
Quantum sensors have a wide range of applications in the fields of microscopy, communication technology, and medicine. Historical examples of quantum sensors include atomic clocks, superconducting quantum interference devices, and magnetometers. In addition to photonic devices, quantum sensing can also be used in areas such as trapped ions, spin qubits, and flux qubits. The current PQI researchers lead a research effort that promises technological advancements and a deeper understanding of quantum sensors.
- Experimental Groups
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- The Chamanzar Lab uses a multimodal approach to develop optical, electrical, and ultrasonic methods to record and stimulate neuronal activity and design next-generation brain interfaces.
- The Dutt Lab uses nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers as potential quantum sensors able to detect weak magnetic fields with nanometer spatial resolution.
- The Purdy Lab is interested in harnessing the quantum effects intrinsic to the mechanical interaction of light with macroscopic mechanical resonators to improve measurement and metrology.
- Theoretical/Computational Groups
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- Junyu Liu's Group specializes in combining quantum physics and modern computer science, particularly in quantum technologies, machine learning, and cybersecurity.
Below is a list of publications in quantum sensing:
- Precision in quantum sensing requires the maximum field strength to be much less than the spectral linewidth of the sensor. The Dutt group in their Nature Communication publication implemented novel phase estimation algorithms on a single electronic spin in a nitrogen-vacancy center in a diamond to achieve a significant improvement in the ratio of the maximum field strength to precision.