Project description
Cryogenic nanoscale metrology for use with quantum technologies
Quantum computing technologies are poised to revolutionise various research fields and industries, driving advancements in healthcare, finance, and beyond. However, the increasing complexity of quantum circuits has created a pressing need for advanced nanoscale tools for fabrication and metrology. The challenge is compounded by the sub-Kelvin operational temperatures of quantum devices, which render conventional microelectronics metrology and thermal imaging techniques ineffective. The ERC-funded CryoQMetrology project aims to develop a cryogenic thermal imaging technique capable of reaching milli-Kelvin temperatures with enhanced thermal sensitivity. To achieve this, the project will adapt superconducting quantum interference devices for industrial metrology applications while improving their efficiency and durability.
Objective
Quantum computing holds the potential to highly impact our society and revolutionize scientific research, healthcare, finance, and beyond. As the complexity of quantum circuits increases, advanced tools for nanoscale metrology of the sources of decoherence and energy loss will become vital for large scale fabrication, inspection, and optimization of quantum devices and microcircuits. The main obstacle is that in contrast to classical computation, solid state quantum devices operate at sub-Kelvin temperatures at which the currently available microelectronics metrology and thermal imaging techniques are inoperable.
In our ERC AdG project, we have developed a groundbreaking technique that provides for the first time cryogenic thermal imaging down to mK temperatures, with four orders of magnitude improvement in thermal sensitivity over the state-of-the-art room-temperature methods. Based on superconducting quantum interference device on the apex of a sharp tip (SOT), it allows nanoscale imaging of the minute heating and energy loss arising from electron scattering off single atomic defects, that can provide the crucial metrology of the decoherence sources in quantum devices. Moreover, the SOT delivers simultaneous imaging of the electrical currents flowing in superconducting circuits, essential for inspection and optimization of superconducting qubits.
This PoC project is aimed at adaptation of the SOT lab technology to industrial metrology applications, including development of reproducible industrially-compatible device fabrication methods, boosting their environmental durability, enhancing the SOT functionalities, and development of sustainable characterization methods. We will develop IPR strategy, explore establishment of industrial partnerships, and promote integration of the SOT sensors into existing industrial workflows, to deliver a precise metrology solution to advance quantum computing development and enhance the competitiveness of the European industry.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2024-POC
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7610001 Rehovot
Israel
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