Mid-infrared Quantum LIDAR

LIDAR — light detection and ranging — is a method in which pulsed laser light is reflected off remote targets for range finding and depth profiling via fast temporal and frequency measurements. It is applied across a wide range of applications from self-driving cars to archaeology and geology, atmospheric science and defence. Quantum LIDAR aims to enhance the capabilities of traditional LIDAR with quantum technology such as entangled light sources and single-photon detecton.

This project will investigate quantum LIDAR at strategically relevant wavelengths from 1550 nm into the mid-infrared wavelength regime (MWIR), from 3 μm to 8.5 μm. We first aim to demonstrate 2D LIDAR with quantum-enhanced sensitivity using modular, high bandwidth entangled light sources and 1.55 µm single-photon cameras. We will then extend these capabilities into the — for quantum applications — thus far unexplored MWIR by building light sources and detectors based on advanced nonlinear materials to demonstrate MWIR quantum LIDAR.

The project offers an excellent entry point into quantum technology, training important skills from photonic engineering to real-world applications in quantum sensing and metrology. Photonics is a very mature quantum technology with comparably short development paths, leaving more time for implementation and field demonstrations. Doctoral students in quantum photonics have a wide array of options to pursue, regardless of whether their primary interest lies in technology development, quantum information processing, or both.

Heriot-Watt’s Institute of Photonics and Quantum Science (IPaQS) is a vibrant environment for PhD research, with a total of 160 academics, postdocs, PhD and EngD students in photonics. IPaQs is involved with two of four EPSRC Quantum Technology Hubs—Quantum-Enhanced Imaging and Quantum Communication. The Mostly Quantum Lab engages in all aspects of quantum photonic engineering and its application to quantum information processing, with currently 6 PhD students and 3 postdocs. Heriot-Watt University is situated in Edinburgh, one of the most beautiful and livable cities in the UK. Our university consistently ranks top in UK student satisfaction surveys and will provide a perfect setting for your life as a PhD student. This 4-year position is fully funded through a DSTL stipend in quantum sensing.