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Quantum Dots for Optical Wireless Communication

Objective

Optical wireless communication (OWC) is a promising technology anticipated to play a key role in the next generation of networks, especially as a complementary technology to traditional radio-frequency (RF) communications. LiFi, a WiFi-compatible version of OWC, was standardized in 2023 (IEEE 802.11bb) with operation in near-infrared (800-1000 nm), highlighting OWC's real-world applications.

Light sources play a critical role in OWC platforms. Most current OWC development efforts in the UK and worldwide are based on epitaxial light sources (GaN-based LEDs and lasers at Cambridge’s LiFi Centre), and some research explores high-speed organic LEDs (HiSOPE, EIC). While promising, these approaches remain largely restricted to the visible spectrum or a narrow near-infrared band, thereby limiting overall data capacity.

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are nanoscale semiconductor crystals whose emission can be tuned from ultraviolet to infrared. FastQD will target record-class aggregate throughput in OWC, using QD-based light sources across the visible and infrared. FastQD will offer a cost-effective, scalable, RoHS-compliant OWC platform, targeting Gb/s bandwidth. A key challenge for QD-based light sources is to switch fast enough to reach high data rates. FastQD will address this with both nanomaterial and device engineering, and will enable the light to turn on and off much faster.

Keywords

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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

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HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2025-PF

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Coordinator

THE UNIVERSITY COURT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST ANDREWS
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 276 187,92
Address
NORTH STREET 66 COLLEGE GATE
KY16 9AJ ST ANDREWS
United Kingdom

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Region
Scotland Eastern Scotland Clackmannanshire and Fife
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

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