In order to fully exploit the advantages of quantum science, it is necessary to network quantum devices so that they can exchange quantum information. For instance, to achieve scalable quantum computing, we optimise architectures to connect small-scale quantum processors and to distribute computational tasks. Communicating quantum states between quantum processors is another important experimental challenge. We develop efficient quantum memories and repeaters, high fidelity quantum teleportation techniques and versatile quantum interface protocols for this purpose.
Networking includes secure communications. One of the first applications of modern quantum mechanics is key distribution, which allows secret messages to be sent using one-time pads, known to be the most secure method of communication. But sharing a one-time pad between two legitimate users is not easy when they are far apart. Quantum communication provides a scheme to share a string of random numbers using the superposition principle and the theory of measurement in quantum mechanics. Our current research includes the security testing of quantum cryptography protocols, development of quantum repeaters and random number generators using photons, and post-quantum cryptography. In order to commercialise quantum cryptography, an important issue will be system integration and standardisation, where Imperial has considerable experience.
Our researchers:
Professor Neil Alford MBE FREng
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Professor Neil Alford MBE FREng
Department of Materials
Dr Daan Arroo
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Dr Daan Arroo
Department of Materials
Dr Shelly Conroy
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Dr Shelly Conroy
Department of Materials
Professor Carlo Contaldi
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Professor Carlo Contaldi
Department of Physics
Professor Zahid Durrani
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Professor Zahid Durrani
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Professor Sandrine Heutz
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Professor Sandrine Heutz
Department of Materials
Professor Michael Huth
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Professor Michael Huth
Department of Computing
Dr Steve Kolthammer
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Dr Steve Kolthammer
Department of Physics
Professor Kin Leung
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Professor Kin Leung
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Professor Cong Ling
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Professor Cong Ling
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Professor Emil Lupu
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Professor Emil Lupu
Department of Computing
Professor Stefan Maier
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Professor Stefan Maier
Department of Physics
Professor Cecilia Mattevi
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Professor Cecilia Mattevi
Department of Materials
Professor Julie McCann
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Professor Julie McCann
Department of Computing
Professor Rupert Oulton
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Professor Rupert Oulton
Department of Physics
Dr Raj Patel
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Dr Raj Patel
Department of Physics
Dr Michael Vanner
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Dr Michael Vanner
Department of Physics
Dr Herbert Wiklicky
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Dr Herbert Wiklicky
Department of Computing