Trieste, January 23, 2023 – Two new laboratories for quantum physics at the University of Trieste have been inaugurated: the ArQuS laboratory (Artificial Quantum Systems), where artificial quantum systems will be studied through the control of individual atoms, and the QCI (Quantum Communication and Information) laboratory for quantum communication.
The laboratories are located in the spaces of the National Research Council (CNR) at the Area Science Park (Basovizza) and are led by Francesco Scazza (UniTS) and Alessandro Zavatta (INO-CNR).
ArQuS Laboratory – Cold atoms for quantum sciences and technologies
The ArQuS laboratory (Artificial Quantum Systems) is established to create artificial quantum systems through precise control of individual ytterbium atoms.
Francesco Scazza, the laboratory’s director, explains: “The quantum systems of cold atoms realized in the ArQuS laboratory can be used as prototypes for studying the interaction of a large number of quantum particles, creating the so-called quantum simulators. Precise control over individual atoms can also be exploited to generate states of matter strongly correlated, such as entangled states with many particles, an essential resource for future quantum computers and atomic clocks.”
QCI Laboratory – Quantum networks for maximum security of information systems
The QCI laboratory is dedicated to research and technological development of new solutions for quantum communications over optical fiber.
Angelo Bassi emphasizes: “While in traditional computer networks, data can be intercepted, in a quantum network, this is impossible.”
Alessandro Zavatta, the laboratory’s director, explains: “Quantum communications represent an advanced and highly secure approach to information transmission. In the QCI laboratory, we are currently developing innovative systems for quantum distribution of cryptographic keys and direct quantum communications, both over optical fiber and in free space.”
QCI is funded by Quantum FVG and QuFree. ArQuS has received funding from OrbiDynaMIQs, FastOrbit, and CoQuS.