Quantum communication and networking

A key research focus at Heriot-Watt's Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences (IPaQS) is the development of quantum communication, with the potential to transform how information is transmitted securely and efficiently across the globe. By harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics, quantum communication systems enable the secure transmission of data over long distances, forming the backbone of future quantum networks.

Quantum mechanics prescribes that the observation of a quantum system, such as a single photon, can induce a perturbation of its state. Therefore, any attempt to eavesdrop on a quantum channel would be immediately detectable, offering a level of protection far beyond classical methods in sharing secure cryptographic keys. This level of security is vital for industries such as finance, healthcare, and government, where sensitive data must be protected from external threats. In addition to secure communication, quantum networks will support the sharing of data for quantum computing, enabling distributed quantum computing, where multiple quantum systems collaborate on solving complex computational problems. This opens new possibilities for industries relying on vast computational power.

Through partnerships with global industry leaders and governments, IPaQS is helping to lay the groundwork for the next generation of secure communications infrastructure. We lead the new "Integrated Quantum Networks" (IQN) hub, established by the UKRI Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). This consortium of 14 universities, supported by over 40 non-academic collaborators, ranging from startups to multinational corporations, alongside organisations like the National Cyber Security Centre and Scottish Enterprise. It will receive over £20 million in partner support to help translate quantum innovations into new products and services. This is supported by several UK and European research grants, that enable us to collaborate with international researchers at the forefront of this exciting field.

Quantum key distribution and quantum networking require high-quality single photons at telecom wavelengths, and IPaQS develops state-of-the-art single photon source based on nonlinear optical processes or generated by single photon emitters such as semiconductor quantum dots. Furthermore, a critical aspect of developing robust quantum networks is overcoming the distance limitations of quantum signals, which unlike classical ones, cannot be amplified and therefore degrade rapidly with distance. IPaQS is pioneering the development of quantum repeaters, based on local solid-state qubits, implemented for example with ensembles of rare-earth ions, or with single electronic and nuclear spins in silicon-carbide (SiC) quantum opto-electronic devices. As an alternative approach, we are also leading the implementation of a UK quantum satellite network, that will be enable the establishment of secure channels within remote locations. Our Edinburgh campus hosts the Quantum Communications Hub Optical Ground Station (HOGS), a state-of-the-art telescope designed as receiver for quantum signals from satellites.

We are part of four of the five new quantum Hubs, developed to ensure the UK benefits from the potential of quantum technologies. As well as leading the “Integrated Quantum Networks Hub” (IQN) we are partners in the UK Hub for Quantum Enabled Position Navigation and Timing (QEPNT), The UK Quantum Technology Research Hub in Sensing, Imaging and Timing (QuSIT) and the UK Quantum Biomedical Sensing Research Hub (Q-BIOMED). Industry collaboration is key to these hubs, leveraging cash and in-kind contributions from partners worth more than £54 million.

The Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences (IPaQS) is part of a focused research ecosystem at Heriot-Watt University, working to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges. By bringing together experts in quantum technologies and photonics, IPaQS fosters a collaborative environment where innovative solutions can be developed. This interdisciplinary approach is strengthened through external partnerships, ensuring the research not only advances scientific understanding but also delivers real-world impact across multiple sectors.