Grants and Contributions:
Title:
Quantum Photonic Combs for PNT Applications
Agreement Number:
1040302
Agreement Value:
$199,980.00
Agreement Date:
Mar 13, 2026 - Mar 31, 2028
Description:
The Project addresses the critical need for ultraprecise timing and synchronization in PNT sectors. The objective is to develop a new class of semiconductor lasers capable of generating optical frequency combs alongside squeezed quantum states of light. High-precision timing and synchronization are essential for navigation, communications, defense, and industrial metrology systems. Although current optical comb-based synchronizers can achieve femtosecond-level precision, their performance is ultimately constrained by shot noise, especially over long-distance fiber links. Quantum-squeezed light can overcome these noise limits, offering a pathway to even higher timing accuracy. However, existing squeezed-light source remain impractical for field deployment due to their large size, complexity, fragility and incompatibility with large-scale integration. The Project's solution involves embedding an InAs/InP quantum-dot gain medium into our uniquely customized laser cavity structures. These materials enable ultrafast carrier dynamics and inherently low phase noise,both of which are essential for generating nonlinear optical effects such as four-wave mixing and Kerr-induced comb formation. To enhance device performance, the Project designs multifunctional thin-film coatings on the laser facets that simultaneously control reflectivity and manage dispersion.This engineered dispersion supports phase matching, enabling efficient generation of frequency combs with quadrature-squeezed light directly on a chip. By leveraging the NRC's expertise in quantum dot coherent comb laser development and Laval University, Prof. Grillot's recent achievements in nonlinear photonics and non-classical light generation, the Project establishes a clear path toward prototype demonstration. Potential beneficiaries include providers of navigation and quantum-secured internetworking seeking ultra-stable timing; autonomous vehicle and defense systems requiring high-precision ranging; and industrial and environmental monitoring sectors that demand compact, multi-parameter sensors. The Project will catalyze a shift from laboratory-based quantum optics to ubiquitous, high-impact (TRL 6) applications. It aligns directly with Canada's National Quantum Strategy and strengthens the country's leadership in next-generation metrology and quantum enabled innovation.
Organization:
National Research Council Canada
Expected Results:
In the short term, anticipated outcomes will be strengthened collaborations across industry, academia, and government to support research excellence. In the medium term, anticipated outcomes will be the development of new and potentially disruptive technologies with collaborators. In the long term, find collaborative solutions to public policy challenges and create stronger innovation systems.
Location:
Quebec, Quebec, CA G1V 0A6
Reference Number:
172-2025-2026-Q4-1040302
Agreement Type:
Grant
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient Business Number:
119278950
Recipient Type:
Academia
Recipient's Legal Name:
Université Laval
Federal Riding Name:
Louis-Hébert
Federal Riding Number:
24043
Program:
Collaborative Science, Technology and Innovation Program - Collaborative R&D Initiatives
Program Purpose:
Collaborate on multiparty research and development programs to catalyze transformative, high-risk, high-reward research with the potential for game-changing scientific discoveries and technological breakthroughs in priority areas.
NAICS Code:
541710 - R&D in the physical, engineering and life sciences