Prime Highlights:
The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo has secured $1 million to advance quantum metrological standards.
The project aims to develop quantum standards for voltage, mass, and temperature measurements, providing higher accuracy and operating at higher temperatures than current quantum devices.
Key Background:
The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo has secured $1 million in funding to propel the development of quantum metrological standards. Led by Dr. David Cory, a professor in the Department of Chemistry, the research project is aimed at enhancing the precision of quantum measurement tools while reducing their experimental overheads.
This initiative is jointly funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) through its Alliance Quantum grants, and the National Research Council of Canada (NRC). It supports the implementation of Canada’s National Quantum Strategy (NQS), which is designed to tackle significant challenges in quantum science and foster the growth of quantum technologies in areas such as encryption, communication, computing, and sensing.
Dr. Cory’s team includes IQC research associate Dr. George Nichols, Dr. Guo-Xing Miao, professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Dr. Labanya Ghosh, postdoctoral fellow, and graduate student Yawen Peng. Together, they aim to develop quantum standards that match the performance of current measurement tools but with significantly reduced limitations, particularly in high-precision applications.
The focus on reducing experimental overheads aims to overcome current challenges like the extreme temperature requirements of quantum devices, making these tools more accessible for use in national labs, research centers, and industries requiring high-precision measurements, such as telecommunications and nuclear sectors.
Dr. Cory highlighted that quantum metrological standards, based on universal constants, offer unprecedented precision compared to classical devices. By developing tools for measuring voltage, mass, and temperature with advanced materials and fabrication techniques, the project will enable ultra-precise measurements critical to advancing quantum technologies. This funding is a significant step in strengthening Canada’s position as a global leader in quantum research, aligning with the broader goals of the NQS to foster innovation, talent, and quantum-ready technologies.
