Quantum Sensing

The scalability of atom-based quantum sensors is currently limited by traditional free-space optics. Our group researches novel sensor architectures that utilize metasurfaces and integrated photonics to control state preparation and readout at the chip scale. By replacing discrete optical components with integrated solutions, we enhance the stability and sensitivity of quantum devices while drastically reducing their physical footprint. Our research enables the transition to robust, field-deployable sensors for high-precision navigation, timing, and environmental monitoring.

Cold-atom systems underpin high-precision clocks, inertial sensors, and quantum sensors, but conventional implementations require large assemblies of lasers, lenses, waveplates, and magnetic coils. We are developing planar alternatives in which metasurfaces shape and polarise cooling beams while integrated photonic components provide beam delivery. 

In a recent low-SWaP magneto-optical trap demonstration, a monolithic dual-functional metasurface converted a linearly polarised Gaussian beam into a circularly polarised flat-top cooling beam, replacing conventional lens–waveplate assemblies. By applying our research in nanophotonic design we can create the components needed for the tight specifications needed in quantum sensors.

More broadly, the group targets portable optical atomic clocks and deployable quantum systems based on integrated photonics and metasurface optics.