What exactly are you researching?
‘We already know how quantum photonic chips work, but now we want to make them more stable and smaller, and cheaper to produce. In other words, we aim to develop light-based chips that are faster, more robust, and more energy-efficient. We also want to investigate how different chips of this kind can be interconnected.
In quantum computers, photonic chips need to have extremely low losses and be very stable. Otherwise, quantum information is lost and the system simply does not work. You can also imagine that if such chips are used in satellites, they must be able to withstand the vibrations of a launch and then continue to function normally. Another application of the same technology lies in classical, but ultra-fast radar electronics, or in detecting fluctuations in gravity, which could potentially be used to locate water or oil underground.
In our lab, we already have working set-ups, but they currently take up an entire table. Eventually, all of that needs to fit onto a chip just a few millimetres across. Colleagues at UT, for example, are working on chips based on aluminium oxide, a sapphire-like material. Aluminium oxide can guide light particles of various colours with very low loss, which is essential for complex photonic circuits. Within P4Q, we are also working with a semiconductor called indium gallium phosphide. Colleagues in France have shown that this material can be used to create quantum light sources. These materials are indispensable for the advancement of quantum technology.’
What will people in Twente actually notice?
‘By expanding knowledge about photonic chips, you automatically learn more about chips in general. That benefits the entire knowledge ecosystem in this region and strengthens it. It also makes the region attractive for major players such as TNO or Demcon to come here and stay.
Around our technological innovations, a whole network of technical companies and spin-offs emerges. Within P4Q, examples include QuiX Quantum, Aluvia, and Lionix International. That includes everyone from suppliers and developers to manufacturers and logistics providers. It gives the entire sector in this region a boost and can create jobs. UT, and with it the wider region, is now sitting at the European table.
At the moment, quantum technology is still relatively expensive because components are difficult to produce at scale. That is why it hardly features in everyday life yet. By finding ways to make it smaller and cheaper, the path opens up for larger-scale production and broader applications.’
What will UT itself gain from this?
‘That fifty million euros sounds impressive, but it is divided among thirty partners. All in all, a few million euros will come to us. The real benefit lies more in the expansion of our foundational knowledge, which we are taking to a higher level through this project.
The idea that this also lays the groundwork for an entire industry in this region is appealing to future students who want to specialise in quantum photonics. They can come here to learn the latest insights before entering the job market. You could say that quantum engineers will not have to worry about unemployment in the coming years.’
UT will be leading a consortium of around thirty European partners. How do you manage that?
‘I will not be doing all of that myself. A vacancy has already been opened for a programme manager. It is better to have someone who can keep everything running smoothly. I prefer to spend my time in the lab or teaching, and will remain more in the background as coordinator.’
