Quantum Detectors & Sensors

ECE69500

Credit Hours:

3

Learning Objective:

  • Identify the fundamental differences between classical noise and quantum fluctuations in physical quantities (Quantum noise)
  • Define the concept of coherence in space and time through the example of light (Quantum coherence)
  • Describe the next generation of ultra-precision measurement tools (Quantum metrology)
  • Design new systems for imaging, communications and a host of other applications exploiting superior detector technology (Quantum detectors)
  • Recognize the fundamental limits of classical sensors and how to overcome them using quantum phenomena (Quantum sensing)

Description:

Learners will experience an overview of foundational ideas on which future quantum technology will be built. This course introduces the knowledge that will empower students to understand the difference between the quantum and classical realms. Specifically, this course teaches the concept of quantum detectors, which are central to a wide variety of quantum technologies from computing to networking. Students will also learn about quantum sensors and how they push the frontiers of existing classical sensor technology. Students can expect to learn skills for designing next generation information/communication/imaging systems that exploit unique functionality of quantum detectors and sensors.

Fall 2024 Syllabus

Topics Covered:

Module Week Assignments
1 - Quantum Noise

1. Bosons vs. Fermions

2. Bosonic Harmonic Oscillator

3. Two-Level Atoms

4. Fluctuation-Dissipation Theorem

5. Vacuum Fluctuations

Module 1 Homework

  • Available Monday, 8/19
  • Due: Sunday, 9/22, 11:59 PM ET

2 - Quantum Detectors

6. Classical Detectors

7. Single Photon Avalanche Detectors

8. Superconducting Detectors

9. Quantum Interference

10. Quantum Non-Demolition Measurement

Module 2 Homework

  • Available: Monday 9/23
  • Due: Sunday, 10/27, 11:59 PM ET

Midterm Exam

  • Available: Monday 10/21
  • Due: Sunday , 10/27, 11:59 PM ET

3 - Quantum Sensing

11. Quantum Fisher Information

12. Coherent States and Squeezed States

13. Quantum Interferometry

14. Nitrogen Vacancy Centers in Diamond

15. Quantum Phase Transition Based Sensing Detection

Module 3 Homework

  • Available: Monday 10/28
  • Due: Sunday, 12/1, 11:59 PM ET

Final Exam

Final Exam

Final Exam

  • Available: Monday 12/2
  • Due: Sunday, 12/8, 11:59 PM ET

Prerequisites:

  • Basic knowledge of differential equations
  • Basic knowledge of electromagnetic fields

Applied / Theory:

50 / 50

Homework:

There will be 3 homework assignments of equal weight (all homework are worth 30% of final grade). Homework assignments will involve problem-solving based on material covered in the lectures.

Exams:

There will be 1 midterm exam worth 30% of the final grade. The midterm will be open book/open notes.
There will be 1 final exam worth 40% of the final grade. The final exam will be open book/open notes.

Textbooks:

There is no required textbook for this course. Students will find the material covered in the course and provided references to be self-contained. The slides contain references to specific books and research papers.