Electro-optics for quantum technology

Introduction: The future of superconducting qubits hinges on efficiently and robustly interconnecting quantum processors.

Infrared light, used in global telecommunication systems with low-loss fibre optics, offers a solution. Superconducting qubits use microwave photons for entanglement, readout, and information transport.

If one can convert the superconducting qubit microwave photons (GHz) to infrared photons (THz) this would allow information from the ‘protected’ low-noise cryogenic environment of the lab to be accessed in the thermally noisy world for further computation, readout or connecting with another quantum processor.

At imec, we leverage high-quality materials grown on traditional silicon wafers to create advanced devices which might in the future be able to do this.

We are developing an electro-optic transducer to convert single microwave photons into single infrared photons, achieving unity efficiency in quantum transduction.

Objective: For these transducer devices the performance of the incorporated electro-optical materials is crucial. You would be characterizing and using properties of the electro-optical materials and modelling the acquired data. The goal is to gain a better physical understanding of certain behaviours to draw conclusion for next device iterations.  As this work is in a fast-paced research domain, your precise objective will be determined at the time of starting.  It will be tailored towards the need of the research and your personal preferences.

Methodology: Literature research, simulations & analytical modelling, setting up and performing experiments using cutting edge equipment, analysing and interpreting data. Depending on your skills and interests one or more aspects can be focused on.

Expectations from the Candidate:

• To bring a solution-oriented mindset with strong problem-solving ability.
• Interested to learn about cryogenic measurement setups and RF/Optic metrology tools.
• Operate as part of a research team.
  
   

Candidate Profile: A background in physics, electrical engineering, or materials science. In the latter case a strong willingness to learn about electromagnetic interactions with materials is important.

Support and Guidance: Your daily interactions will be support by a PhD student with hands on experience in the project. Further guidance will be provided by the PI and you are encouraged to reach out outside & within the team of strong PhDs and students to successfully complete the objectives.

Daily Supervision: Tom Tandecki

Promoter: Christian Haffner