Generation and Distribution of Continuous Variable Entanglement

This project aims to generate quantum entanglement based on amplitude and phase squeezing of coherent electromagnetic field of light and distribute the entanglement over fibre and free-space channels. The research will be focused on optical cavity based squeezed state generation. Two separate squeezed states generated from two optical cavities will be used to generate two mode squeezed states - continuous variable entanglements, and then each of the entangled states transmitted over the channel for detection at the end of the channel.

Studying the impact of the quantum channel on the entanglement is an area of the research, mainly when the quantum states are co-existing with classical communication data on the same optical channel. This research provides impactful results in the distribution of continuous variable entanglement systems over noisy channels.

The work plan for the research will be initially based on literature review to developed solid understanding of continuous variable entanglement, optical cavity and various optical locking mechanisms, non-linear quantum optical processes, shot noise limited quantum signal measurements, etc. The literature review also include the understanding of various sources of noise photons in optical communication channels such as optical fibre and atmospheric channels.

The researcher will then work on the experimental setup, characterise the optical cavities and optimise the generation of the squeezed states. The researcher will utilise the campus optical network for the distribution of the entangled states. A free-space channel demonstration is also planned as part of this project.

The labs are well equipped to support the research work and related tests. The researcher will get the weekly supervision support, support from the other group members and colleagues to achieve the research goals.

The project is aligned with EPSRC's strategies and research area of quantum technology. There is no other partners are currently involved in the project.