WG1 Generation, detection & storage of quantum states of light at the nanoscale with emphasis on efficiency, fidelity and rate.

  • Exploit the latest advances in the nanoscale control of optical fields to strongly enhance the interaction of photons with single quantum emitters thus addressing some major roadblocks of quantum information, including the emerging area of quantum plasmonics. These involve, for example, the production of scalable hybrid quantum systems that feature lifetime-limited transitions above cryogenic temperatures and that are able to generate an efficient stream of indistinguishable single photons. In this framework, the Action will perform a comparative study of single-photon sources.
  • An important topic will be the study of new nanomaterials and metamaterials for nonclassical light sources. For instance, progress in graphene plasmonics is expected to have far-reaching implications. In particular, it may offer an ideal platform for cavity quantum electrodynamics (QED) in the solid state. Estimates indicate that the regime where single-quantum surface plasmon-polariton excitations can be generated and manipulated is within reach. This will have various practical implications, such as quantum control of single photons or entangled photon pairs, and enables the development of novel single-molecule sensing approaches.
  • Generation and detection of single photons at infrared telecom wavelengths is still a challenging frame, although InAs QDs and superconducting detectors are improving at a fast pace. Suitably designed nanostructures may enhance the efficiency of photodetectors. Furthermore, materials like graphene, NbTiN, NbSi and superconducting metamaterials may provide more efficient and tunable devices and the study of quantum-optical effects in such functional photonic materials is relevant.
  • Develop advanced nanophotonics couplers and waveguides optimized for applications in integrated quantum photonics.