Module Lead: Dr Jose Verdu Galiana

In this module, you’ll learn about the key aspects of improved sensing methodologies and various techniques and devices that are enabled by quantum physics principles. The focus will be on atomic and photonic systems, and you’ll study use cases in precision metrology and practical sensing and imaging. You’ll also discuss sensing of time, magnetic fields, electromagnetic radiation, and gravity.

The module will cover current cutting-edge developments driving the ever-improving precision of atomic clocks through to the introduction of novel techniques in laser cooling and ion and atom trapping. These elements will be highlighted alongside benefits arising from the utilisation of quantum entanglement and squeezing in atom interferometers for inertial force detection. The module will also cover a range of recent developments, such as magnetometers for healthcare and material science, and microwave devices used for quantum radar.

Sensing and imaging – one of the more mature types of quantum technology – will be taught in more depth to equip you with the tools necessary to make your own impact on the development, deployment, commercialisation, and marketing of this technology in early emerging markets.

By the end of this module, you’ll be able to:

  • show a systematic understanding of the quantum mechanisms used in several sensing modalities
  • describe and critically evaluate laboratory-based quantum sensors and practical devices
  • systematically comprehend the quantum capabilities of sensor devices and appreciate their advantages compared to their most competitive and common classical counterparts.

Types of assessments may include:

  • a problem set (30%) – solutions to a problem set assessing the understanding of principles behind quantum sensing and imaging
  • a portfolio (70%) – the portfolio will contain the work produced during the seven weeks, such as exercises and case studies.