The first generation of quantum devices, which included lasers and semiconductor-based transistors, brought a technological revolution and transformed society. A new generation of quantum technologies is emerging, unique in their abilities to leverage and control previously inaccessible properties of nature, allowing for stunning new capabilities, such as sensors with precision and sensitivity well beyond the known limits of those in use today.
Quantum sensors have the potential to make improvements in navigation, medical imaging, geological surveying, defence, safety, security and beyond. Quantum sensors are expected to be one of the first types of quantum technologies to be commercialized and adopted.
About the program
Hosted by the NRC'sQuantum and Nanotechnologies Research Centre, the goal of the Internet of Things: Quantum Sensors Challenge program(QSP) is to enable the development of revolutionary sensors that harness the extreme sensitivity of quantum through collaborative research and development with quantum and domain experts. The ambition is that this new generation of sensor systems, performing beyond the limits of classical physics, may be engineered and commercialized for applications that benefit Canadians.
Vision
To support Canada's ambition to be a global leader in quantum technologies.
Challenge Statement
To develop a disruptive generation of quantum sensors that are orders of magnitude better than sensors that exist today.
Objectives
- Strengthening of the Canadian quantum technology innovation ecosystem, including increased IP portfolio.
- Advancement of quantum sensing technologies towards adoption and commercialization.
Current areas of focus
Quantum photonics
Developing new or more compatible quantum light sources, detectors and other enabling components in order to advance fundamental science and the commercialization of optics-based quantum sensing technologies.
Chip-based quantum systems
Transitioning quantum systems onto chips in order to create a path towards commercialization and integration into priority application spaces such as defence, environment and health.
Quantum metrology
Developing new, highly precise sensing devices, based on quantum effects, which will improve upon state-of-the-art measurement and calibration technologies. Metrology and standardization will enable technologies to advance towards commercialization.
Feature projects
For a list of collaborative QSP research and development projects, please visit .
Program team
The NRC's Internet of Things: Quantum Sensors Challenge program is made up of a highly-skilled and multi-disciplinary team possessing a broad range of expertise in business and advisory services, and program management.
Aimee K. Gunther, Program Director
Alicia Kam, Chip-Based Quantum Systems Theme Lead
Andrew Todd, Quantum Metrology Theme Lead
Philip Waldron, Chip-Based Quantum Systems Theme Lead
Rebecca Trueman, Lead Innovation Investment Advisor
Razieh Annabestani, Innovation Investment Advisor
Getting involved
Grants and contributions funding is available to help defray the costs of research for academic institutions, small and medium-sized enterprises, and other eligible recipients collaborating with NRC researchers.
Find out more about collaborating with us, and how to apply.
Express your interest
News
- NSERC and the NRC announce funding to advance the industrial readiness of quantum sensing technologies
- Under the microscope: Quantum sensing for biochemical applications
- Quantum biosensor sees crucial light from the brain
- Alliance Quantum grants call for proposals: Advancing the industrial readiness of quantum sensing technologies
- Diamond-based quantum sensors add sparkle to earth and space exploration
- NRC-developed quantum sensors advance simulation software
- Quantum Bridge Secures Funding to Build Quantum Repeaters for Communication Networks
- The quantum future is bright: Dal research breakthrough spurs partnership with federal government
- Canada–UK launch call for proposals on quantum technologies
- The Quantum Sensors Challenge program received funding through the National Quantum Strategy and will contribute to its commercialization pillar, accelerating the translation research into scalable commercial products and services that will benefit Canadians, our industries and the world.
Contact us
If you are interested in collaborating with us, making investments in this area or if you have any questions, please contact:
Dr. Aimee K. Gunther
Director, Quantum Sensors Challenge program
Dr. Philip Waldron
Deputy Director, Quantum Sensors Challenge program
Email: NRC.QuantumSensors-Capteursquantiques.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Related links
- Challenge programs
- Grant and contribution funding
- Quantum and Nanotechnologies Research Centre
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From: National Research Council Canada
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