Fresh funding has been allocated to help the University of Strathclyde develop two international quantum communication technology networks.

Quantum communication uses data encoded as quantum bits, or qubits. Unlike traditional bits, where data is typically encoded as a series of 1s or 0s, qubits can be a 1 or a 0 simultaneously. They only become a 1 or 0 when observed.

This means that if the data stream is intercepted, there are fingerprints left behind to warn the intended recipient.

As such, the technology is promising from a cybersecurity perspective, as it allows sensitive data to be transmitted with far greater protection than current methods.

The first project to receive funding is the International Network in Space Quantum Technologies. This aims to tackle the challenges of taking terrestrial quantum technologies into space. It currently has 37 members across 13 countries, including four industrial partners. One of these is the Strathclyde-hosted Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics.

The Space Quantum Technologies network will develop satellite-enabled quantum-secure communication and Earth observation. Its applications include combating climate change, space weather forecasting, satellite navigation and extra-terrestrial surveying.

Senior Lecturer in Strathclyde’s Department of Physics Dr Daniel Oi is leading the network with his departmental colleague, Dr Paul Griffin.

Dr Oi said: “Taking quantum technologies into space is extremely difficult and will require concerted international effort to realise. There are considerable challenges, such as the requirement to survive launch, the radiation environment in space, autonomous and remote operation and the limited size, weight and power constraints of satellites. However, the rewards will be truly transformative on a global scale.

“The long lines of sight in the space domain will eventually enable the quantum internet and the vantage point afforded from orbit is valuable for quantum enhanced remote sensing and Earth observation. Space-based quantum clocks allow for more accurate timing distribution and synchronisation, enhancing the performance of global navigation satellite systems.”

Quantum Projects

The second project is the International Network for Microfabrication of Atomic Quantum Sensors, which will create a framework for collaboration on the next generation of fully integrated atomic sensors. It currently includes international groups from 13 institutions and three UK industrial partners.

The Network for Microfabrication of Atomic Quantum Sensors will develop the next generation of miniaturised quantum sensors, with potential applications in healthcare, navigation, finance, communication and security.

RAEng (Royal Academy of Engineering) Research Fellow Dr James McGilligan, of Strathclyde’s Department of Physics, is leading the network, with his departmental colleague, Professor Erling Riis.

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Dr McGilligan said: “The deployment, and therefore the application range, of atomic sensors has been largely limited by the scalability of the systems’ constituent parts.

“Institutions around the world are pursuing new ways to enable innovation and tackle this issue through the technological development of next-generation quantum sensors. Often this will require the integration of a diverse range of technology platforms with a vast potential for further advances through collaboration and an open exchange of ideas.

“The network will pursue opportunities where recent advances in component technology have provided important steps forward, but where the realisation of fully integrated, microfabricated devices and sensors has remained elusive. This is partly due to the global spread of component developments and the present lack of an appropriate international network forum for bringing together ideas and technology through, for example, regular meetings and researcher exchanges.”

Both projects received £480,000, announced by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), which is part of UK Research and Innovation.

Strathclyde University is the only academic institution that has been a partner in all four EPSRC-funded Quantum Technology Hubs in both phases of funding.

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