Photonic quantum memories are so far missing key components for the second quantum revolution and enable a plethora of novel applications. For example, quantum networks promise provable security in communication and also the possibility for connecting quantum computers and simulators for calculations on distributed machines.

We focus on the one hand on the development of non-classical light sources and quantum memories for single photons. On the other hand, security-relevant applications of these key components in the emerging quantum technologies are explored. Most prominent, quantum secured communication and optical computation in the quantum and classical regime are in the research focus. At the beginning of the PhD work, a quantum memory for single photons in alkaline vapor at room temperature is built and optimized with respect to noise, efficiency, bandwidth and storage time. Special remark is on using components suitable for future airborne and space missions. Later, the memory is tested in applications.

Funded by: INNOspace Masters, BMWi through DLR. [4]

Project partner: Dr. Markus Krutzik, HU Berlin [5]

Classical digital computer architectures are visibly approaching their technological and physical limits. Thus, there is a growing interest in developing post-digital computing approaches to overcome these limitations. Besides quantum computers, approaches that emulate neuromorphic processes represent a very promising alternative because they mimic the massively parallel, energy-efficient computations carried out by the human brain. Such computations constitute the building blocks of the pattern recognition algorithms underpinning the success of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI). Optically integrated systems promise 2–3 orders of magnitude higher energy efficiency compared to today's electronic approaches [Pen18]. Among others, post-digital computer concepts will enable numerous new applications for AI in places like data centers or security systems, as well as autonomous vehicles, drones and satellites – any area where massive amounts of computations need to be done but is limited by power and time.

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) as a groundbreaking innovation has developed into a driver of digitization and autonomous systems in all areas of life. This has created great potential for mastering global challenges, such as environmental, resource and climate protection, as well as the security and performance of communication and IT systems. The current progress of AI, especially in the field of machine learning, is based on the exponential increase in hardware performance and its use for processing large amounts of data. However, despite the famous nature of Moore’s Law, the overall increase in hardware performance has slowed down in recent years, as for example measured by transistor-density. This motivates research into other approaches. Reservoir computing is one such promising novel paradigm, which has emerged in analogue neuromorphic computing. It shows great potential to overturn the digital transistor-hegemony and explore novel computational mechanisms and substrates for artificial intelligence. In a joint theoretical and experimental effort, this project aims at realizing non- linear optical networks with reconfigurable topology, enabled by combining feedback-coupled optical amplifiers with coherent optical memories. The potential of these systems for neuro-inspired information processing in the reservoir computing approach is explored.

Funded through: DFG

Project Partner: Prof. Dr. Kathy Lüdge, TU Berlin  [10]

Quantum computers have the potential to perform complex computations much more efficiently than classical computers by specifically exploiting the remarkable properties of quantum physics. The expected speed advantage is so substantial that problems become computable that are considered unsolvable with classical computers. However, in order to solve problems from practical applications, systems must be developed that can work with a considerably larger number of quantum bits, so-called qubits, than previous prototypes.

The goal of this project is the development of a novel platform for a quantum computer using single light particles, so-called photons, as qubits. For this purpose, novel sources are to be developed that generate quantum light, as well as integrated photonic circuits in which the information processing takes place.

The processor reads out the generated so-called cluster state, which consists of a large number of entangled photons and thus qubits, one after the other, i.e. qubit by qubit. Thus, it is possible to work with a much larger number of qubits than can be addressed by the processor simultaneously. This project therefore forms the basis for scalable photonic quantum computers that can operate with thousands of qubits, making quantum computing practical for real-world applications. The results achieved in this project will be protected by patents and subsequently exploited commercially, thus securing Germany a leading role in this emerging technology.

Funded by: BMBF
[14]

Project Partners: TU München, University of Paderborn, HU Berlin, Ferdinand-Braun-Institute, Universität des Saarlandes, FU Berlin, Q.Ant GmbH,

For the future security of digital infrastructures, quantum communication is an important building block. In quantum communication, the exchange of cryptographic keys is based on fundamental physical laws, which ensures security even in the event of attacks by quantum computers. In addition to secure data transmission, quantum communication also offers new possibilities for securely authenticating users of digital systems and storing private data in a network. So-called quantum tokens could ensure all this in the future. Analogous to current security tokens such as bank cards, transponders or transaction numbers, quantum tokens are conceivable as an authentication solution using quantum physical properties. On the way to their realization, it is important for research to further improve important key parameters of quantum-physical systems, such as quantum memories, and to find efficient application possibilities.

In order to make quantum communication methods usable, e.g. for the secure authentication of system users by means of quantum tokens, a long-term stable and transportable quantum memory is required. The aim of the project "Quantum tokens based on rubidium and xenon (Q-ToRX)" is therefore to extend the storage time of quantum information in quantum memories at room temperature to the range of hours. Gas cells with xenon and alkaline atoms are used for this purpose. Research is being conducted into how the long storage time of xenon can be combined with the efficient optical interface of alkalines. In parallel, the robustness and technological simplicity of the system used is being further developed in a multidimensional approach.

The storage of light quanta as carriers of quantum information in warm atomic gases is of particular interest, since neither complex cooling mechanisms nor large magnetic fields are required. This makes such quantum memories ideal for field applications. The results of the project are also of high relevance for a variety of current research areas in which the storage of quantum information is required, for example in quantum encryption.

Funded by: BMBF

Project Partners: Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt, Leibniz Universität Hannover

Quantum technologies will fundamentally change our world. Their potential should be made tangible and understandable for many people. Therefore, we develop a live escape game, which challenges the players to collaboratively solve exciting puzzles. The players are immersed in a world where second generation quantum technologies are already being applied. In a playful way, the visitors are motivated to deal with the remarkable properties of quantum mechanics.

Funded by: BMBF
[18]

Project Partners: Dr. Robert Richter [19]