Photonic quantum science is a key future technology that will revolutionize our daily life. Emerging over the past several decades, it addresses the harnessing of quantum mechanical effects for storing, processing and transmitting information encoded in inherently quantum mechanical systems, which eventually leads to new phenomena, functionalities, and devices. Imaging of quantum systems such as photons, molecules, and materials is at the forefront of applied photonic quantum science. It allows to overcome limitations of classical imaging techniques with respect to speed, losses and decoherence.

Three partner institutions from Germany and Canada with complementary leading expertise in quantum science and imaging propose the implementation of a International Research Training Group (IRTG) to synergize their efforts in research and education of next generation scientists. In this IRTG, the fields of quantum optics, ultrafast electronic dynamics and electronic coherence will be combined to realize innovative concepts in telecommunication, data processing, and image reconstruction.

The expected training outcome is young researchers with wide ranging knowledge of forefront quantum science and technology and with some business savvy. This will give our graduates the flexibility to adapt to innovation in the rapidly changing arena of quantum science and technology. Our graduates will be ideally suited to help photonics industry in the transition from classical photonics to quantum photonics science. Furthermore, the broad knowledge of our graduates in the latest quantum technologies will bring new innovative ideas into emerging companies. In addition, there is a realistic potential that new start-ups will emerge from the IRTG.

The University of Rostock (UROS) has world-recognized expertise in theoretical and experimental quantum optics, in particular in the fields of squeezed light, integrated quantum optics, strong-field physics, and molecular structures, with additional focus on microscopy and its application to life sciences. The University of Ottawa (uOttawa) is world-renowned for their expertise in quantum nonlinear photonics, attosecond science, ultrafast optics, and laser processing of matter on sub-micron scale. The University of Calgary (uCalgary) hosts the Institute for Quantum Science and Technology with its four departments of chemistry, computer science, mathematics and physics. The Institute's themes are quantum optics, quantum information, quantum nanotechnology, and molecular modelling with formidable strengths in quantum sensing, communication and computing.

Therefore, this IRTG opens a unique opportunity to educate young scientists working towards doctoral degrees in a binational environment and in all aspects of quantum technology, from fundamental concepts, via proof-of-principle demonstrations, to the transfer into real-world applications.

Sincerely,

Prof. Dr. Stefan Scheel