Prof. Konrad Banaszek from UW has received a grant awarded by the Foundation for Polish Science under the International Research Agendas Programme. His project is devoted to quantum optical technologies.
The International Research Agendas programme (IRAP) supports the creation of leading research centres in Poland. In the third edition of the programme three research projects have been selected. Prof. Konrad Banaszek is the author of one of them – “Quantum Optical Technologies”. The scientist will create, in cooperation with the University of Oxford, a research centre on the Ochota campus of the University of Warsaw, where six groups of scientists will be carrying out research on quantum optical technologies. The project received funding of nearly PLN 35 million. It will last five years.
The central objective of the agenda is to explore in optical and optically controlled systems specifically quantum phenomena, such as superpositions and entanglement, with the long-term aim of their practical utilisation. The ability to control physical systems at the level of individual quanta and to prepare and manipulate superposition states enables new modes of quantum information processing and transmission, metrology, etc. with performance enhanced beyond what is attainable using conventional approaches. Such quantum engineering techniques are maturing in the optical domain that serves as a physical platform to many widespread applications including communication, imaging, and sensing. This opens up exciting prospects for exploitation of current scientific advances. Building on the state-of-the-art, the agenda will pursue cutting-edge research while looking for opportunities to foster innovation and to bring eventually socio-economic benefits.
– The International Research Agenda Programme (IRAP) is for me an exciting opportunity to set up a world-class research centre in the fascinating area of quantum technologies. Following current developments in quantum communication and sensing, the paradigm-shifting approach based on quantum physics means that one can firmly expect many quantum-enhanced applications yet to be discovered and exploited, with the prominent role played by the photonic platform. Building on traditional excellence in the fields of optics and quantum physics and recent investments in research infrastructure, the new IRAP unit hosted by the University of Warsaw will be able to participate as an active partner in world-wide efforts to purse the benefits of quantum technologies – said Prof. Konrad Banaszek.
The Foundation for Polish Science also awarded two other initiatives – the International Centre for Theory of Quantum Technologies, and a new centre specializing in research on acquired genetic anomalies as risk factors for cancer and other illnesses.
More information is available on the website of the foundation.