Public Abstract

DE-SC0025432: Enhancing Quantum Networking Research Capabilities in Alabama: Integrating RF Photonic Controls for High-Frequency Cryogenic Links in GHz-THz Bands

Award Status: Active

Institution: The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL
UEI: RCNJEHZ83EV6
DUNS: 045632635

Most Recent Award Date: 09/18/2024
Number of Support Periods: 1
PM: Pino, Robinson

Current Budget Period: 09/01/2024 - 08/31/2025
Current Project Period: 09/01/2024 - 08/31/2028
PI: Kung, Patrick

Supplement Budget Period: N/A

Public Abstract

Enhancing Quantum Networking Research Capabilities in Alabama: Integrating RF Photonic Controls for High-Frequency Cryogenic Links in GHz-THz Bands Patrick Kung, the University of Alabama (Principal Investigator) Seongsin Margaret Kim, the University of Alabama (Co-Investigator) Joseph Lukens, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (Laboratory Collaborator) Benjamin Lawrie, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (Laboratory Collaborator) The development of long-distance quantum networks has been a long-standing goal. These networks, in which quantum processors are interconnected, would facilitate secure communication protocols over long distances. They would enable the transfer of information between spatially separated nodes in a manner that is resistant to eavesdropping. At the same time, quantum computing systems at the nodes require a level of precision and stability that can only be achieved under extreme environmental conditions, which remains a major challenge. While advantageous for short distances, microwave frequency links encounter practical limitations when extended beyond a few tens of meters due to the necessity of cooling these links to cryogenic temperatures. This requirement is seen as a significant barrier to their practicality for longer distances. By contrast, optical fiber links, operating at higher carrier frequencies, would offer a noise-resistant solution at room temperature, enabling the deployment of low-loss, cost-effective connections over many kilometers. This would make them particularly suited for long-haul communications, where they could be utilized without the need for temperature regulation. In this EPSCoR-State/National Laboratory Partnership, the research focuses on the transduction of quantum networks, interfacing stationary matter qubits with the flying qubits of the network. It aims to develop and demonstrate photonic-based approaches for both qubit controls and readouts at high frequency, cryogenic temperatures, and in high magnetic fields, using both classical and quantum hybrid architectures. The research represents a significant leap forward in the pursuit of higher temperature and scalable quantum computing architecture, which holds promise for superior cost-effectiveness and performance. The objectives of this collaborative project between the University of Alabama and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) encompass: (1) developing a detailed theoretical model relating photonic and qubit performance metrics; (2) implementing and verifying the architecture for photonically-assisted generation and delivery of microwave control signals; (3) designing, implementing and verifying the architecture for photonically-assisted readout of qubit states; and (4) integrating and validating the quantum networking architecture into ORNL’s Quantum Local Area Network (QLAN) through demonstration of photonic control and readout of spin qubits. This project also aims to develop sustainable research capabilities and workforce training in quantum networking science and technology within the state of Alabama.

Enhancing Quantum Networking Research Capabilities in Alabama: Integrating RF Photonic Controls for High-Frequency Cryogenic Links in GHz-THz Bands

Patrick Kung, the University of Alabama (Principal Investigator)

Seongsin Margaret Kim, the University of Alabama (Co-Investigator)

Joseph Lukens, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (Laboratory Collaborator)

Benjamin Lawrie, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (Laboratory Collaborator)

The development of long-distance quantum networks has been a long-standing goal. These networks, in which quantum processors are interconnected, would facilitate secure communication protocols over long distances. They would enable the transfer of information between spatially separated nodes in a manner that is resistant to eavesdropping. At the same time, quantum computing systems at the nodes require a level of precision and stability that can only be achieved under extreme environmental conditions, which remains a major challenge. While advantageous for short distances, microwave frequency links encounter practical limitations when extended beyond a few tens of meters due to the necessity of cooling these links to cryogenic temperatures. This requirement is seen as a significant barrier to their practicality for longer distances. By contrast, optical fiber links, operating at higher carrier frequencies, would offer a noise-resistant solution at room temperature, enabling the deployment of low-loss, cost-effective connections over many kilometers. This would make them particularly suited for long-haul communications, where they could be utilized without the need for temperature regulation.

In this EPSCoR-State/National Laboratory Partnership, the research focuses on the transduction of quantum networks, interfacing stationary matter qubits with the flying qubits of the network. It aims to develop and demonstrate photonic-based approaches for both qubit controls and readouts at high frequency, cryogenic temperatures, and in high magnetic fields, using both classical and quantum hybrid architectures. The research represents a significant leap forward in the pursuit of higher temperature and scalable quantum computing architecture, which holds promise for superior cost-effectiveness and performance. The objectives of this collaborative project between the University of Alabama and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) encompass: (1) developing a detailed theoretical model relating photonic and qubit performance metrics; (2) implementing and verifying the architecture for photonically-assisted generation and delivery of microwave control signals; (3) designing, implementing and verifying the architecture for photonically-assisted readout of qubit states; and (4) integrating and validating the quantum networking architecture into ORNL’s Quantum Local Area Network (QLAN) through demonstration of photonic control and readout of spin qubits.

This project also aims to develop sustainable research capabilities and workforce training in quantum networking science and technology within the state of Alabama.