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Quantum Electronics Group

The Quantum Electronics Group has two core objectives: (1) to perform fundamental research that enables the detection of weak signals based on quantum coherence and quantum entanglement in superconducting quantum systems, (2) to develop low noise, high bandwidth multiplexed readout for arrays of cryogenic and quantum sensors.

The Quantum Electronics Group (QEG) has two core objectives: (1) to perform fundamental research that enables the detection of weak signals based on quantum coherence and quantum entanglement in superconducting quantum systems, (2) to develop low noise, high bandwidth multiplexed readout for arrays of cryogenic and quantum sensors.

The first core objective leverages the groups existing expertise in superconducting materials, superconducting device design, quantum-limited parametric amplifiers, and cryogenics to explore the detection of weak signals using superconducting devices and for studying loss mechanisms in superconducting devices relevant for quantum information. This work includes the Boulder Cryogenic Quantum Testbed (BCQT) Project which develops and openly disseminates standard protocols to reproducibly measure the performance characteristics of superconducting microwave resonators used in quantum computing circuits, especially at millikelvin temperatures and single photon powers.

The second core objective, developing readout for arrays of cryogenic and quantum sensors, focuses on the design of low-noise amplifiers and multiplexing circuits that are optimized for sensors produced both within the Quantum Sensors Division and the larger community using low-temperature detectors. To support the widest adoption of this novel sensor technology, the QEG also designs and builds the custom room-temperature electronics necessary to perform end-to-end readout with these systems.

Projects and Programs

Amplifiers

Ongoing
We have developed parametric amplifiers based on two different technologies: Josephson Junctions and superconductors with high kinetic inductance, a representation of the kinetic energy of superconducting Cooper-pair charge carriers. Junction-based parametric amplifiers (JPAs) are well suited for

Detector Readout Project

Ongoing
NIST’s Quantum Sensors Division develops highly sensitive cryogenic sensors, for example transition-edge sensors (TESs) and kinetic inductance detectors (KIDs), to enable precision measurements in a large range of scientific applications. The successful implementation of these novel sensor

Quantum Characterization

Ongoing
The BCQT serves as a resource to academic and industry quantum research groups for measurement of superconducting microwave resonators in a well-characterized cryogenic environment using traceable, open-source methods developed in broad consultation with companies, universities, and NIST. This

Awards

Contacts

Group Leader