IIT-D launches Centre on Quantum Technologies

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has set up a ‘Centre of Excellence (CoE) on Quantum Technologies’ in a bid to conduct research activities in the related field.

Key Points

• This CoE will bring synergy and coherence in the activities that are being carried out at IIT Delhi,
• It will also support the principal investigators to pitch in for several significant projects from the DST and other agencies.

Focus areas of CoE

The centre of Excellence will focus on select thrust areas including quantum computing, quantum sensing & metrology, quantum communication and quantum materials & devices. Centre would undertake the design and development of new quantum materials. It would also undertake research activities related to the quantum processor & cryogenic controller, modelling and technology development of semiconducting qubits such as CMOS and 2D materials, quantum biophotonics, quantum sensing & metrology, development of single-photon detectors etc.

Significance of quantum physics

Quantum physics has impacted society in an unprecedented way, in some 100 years. In order to exploit the characteristics of quantum physics in light & materials, researchers invented both laser and the transistor. Inventions ranging form the basis of information technology, computers, the internet, etc has shaped the society up to a large extent. It was the first quantum revolution.

Second quantum revolution

Second quantum revolution is now round the corner. It is benefitting enormously from the advancements of ability to detect and manipulate single quantum objects like photons and atoms.

Month: Current Affairs - September, 2021