Queensland Quantum Optics Laboratory

The Queensland Quantum Optics Laboratory at the University of Queensland undertakes research in the quantum physics of microscale optical devices, with the aims of both testing fundamental physics, and developing quantum technologies with future applications in metrology, communication, and computation.

Our research is primarily based around optical architectures integrated onto silicon chips compatible with current-day fiber optic systems. These architectures provide a test-bed from which we can study a wide range of quantum processes including entanglement and non-locality, and quantum optomechanical systems. The robustness and scalability of the systems used offers potential for the investigation of large-scale quantum systems and phenomena.

The lab has Australia’s only fabrication facilities for silicon chip based ultrahigh quality optical microcavities, and one of only a few such facilities in the world.

The lab also has cryogenic facilities allowing operation of quantum devices at temperatures as low as 0.3 K; multiple laser sources; and a range of radio frequency test and measurement systems.

The Queensland Quantum Optics Lab's latest acquisition is a dilution refrigerator - capable of reaching temperatures beneath 10 millikelvin (0.01 degrees away from absolute zero). It is the first such fridge in Australia that allows optical probing of cryogenic samples. Funded by EQuS, the University of Queensland and the Queensland Quantum Optics Lab, it will form the core of the new UQ Superfluid Physics Facility. It will allow quantum fluids to be studied in new regimes, and the development of new superfluid-based technologies such as precision sensors for navigation systems and low noise photon counters.

Last updated 10 February 2021
Last reviewed 7 July 2015

Major funding support

Australian Research Council

The Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS) acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to Elders past and present.