Silicon Photonics-based Control and Data Acquisition System for Cryogenic Environments in Particle and Quantum Physics

Overview

RESEARCH DIRECTION: Jean-François Pratte, Professeur - Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
RESEARCH CO-DIRECTION: Serge Charlebois, Professeur - Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
ADMINISTRATIVE UNIT(S): Faculté de génie
Département de génie électrique et de génie informatique
Institut interdisciplinaire d'innovation technologique (3IT)

LEVEL(S): 2e cycle
3e cycle
Stage postdoctoral
LOCATION(S): 3IT - Institut interdisciplinaire d'innovation technologique

Project Description

This project aims to design an optical communication system based on silicon photonics for applications in cryogenic environments, such as experiments in particle physics (e.g. nEXO, ARGO), high-energy physics and quantum physiques (e.g. qubit control and readout).

The motivation for this project comes from the advantages the optical communication offers over classical electrical communication. As no current passes through optical fibers, a galvanic isolation between power and communication lines allows the system to be more resistant to ground loops and electromagnetic interference (EMI). Also, the system will be designed as a passive optical network (PON) and without a laser in the cryogenic modules, allowing for a very low power communication.

The objectives for this project include developing a prototype photonics chip for the system, developing a cryogenic packaging and optical coupling solution as well as developing the control system for the photonics chip. 

This project will allow the interested person to develop knowledge in silicon photonic design. 100% of our students found a job before or at the end of their studies. The working environment at 3IT provides the experts, infrastructure and a motivated team required for the project.

Discipline(s) by sector

Sciences naturelles et génie

Génie électrique et génie électronique, Génie physique

Funding offered

Yes

The last update was on 13 March 2024. The University reserves the right to modify its projects without notice.