Dr. David Cory, a faculty member at the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) and a professor in the Department of Chemistry, is leading a research project that has secured $1 million in funding to advance quantum metrological standards. The funding comes from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada's Alliance Quantum grants and the National Research Council of Canada, in alignment with the National Quantum Strategy (NQS). This strategy aims to address challenges in quantum science while promoting the development of quantum technologies such as computing, encryption, materials, and sensing.
The project, involving researchers from the University of Waterloo, seeks to develop quantum measurement tools and standards that match the performance of current methods but with significantly reduced experimental overheads. Presently, such tools require low-temperature environments and specialized research facilities, limiting their accessibility. By leveraging novel superconducting materials and advanced fabrication techniques, the team is designing quantum voltage, mass, and temperature measurement devices that function at higher temperatures. This breakthrough could make precise quantum measurements more widely available beyond specialized laboratories.
Beyond the immediate benefits to the quantum industry, these advancements have potential applications in telecommunications, the nuclear sector, and other fields requiring high-precision measurements. Dr. Cory emphasizes that quantum metrological standards derive their accuracy from universal constants, making them more robust and reliable than classical methods. By making these standards more accessible, the project aims to accelerate the development of quantum technologies and bolster Canada's leadership in the global quantum sector. The University of Waterloo has been at the forefront of quantum research for over two decades, and this latest funding reinforces its commitment to advancing the goals of the NQS.