Running projects

QuPIC Project (Quantum Universal Photonics Integrated Circuit Platform)

The QuPIC project aims to develop a universal photonic integrated circuit (PIC) platform using Al2O3 technology to enable scalable quantum computing, communications, and sensing systems. By creating PIC building blocks, including light sources, single-photon detectors, and packaging and assembly technologies, QuPIC seeks to reduce the size, cost, and complexity of quantum devices. This European consortium brings together key academic and industry partners to establish a robust supply chain for photonic quantum technologies.

Project Information:

Academic partners: University of Twente, Ghent University, University of Münster, Chalmers University of Technology, Technische Universität Berlin, Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)

Industry partners: QuiX Quantum, Tematys, TOPTICA Photonics, TOPTICA EAGLEYARD, ALUVIA, VLC Photonics (Hitachi Group)

Funding:  €5,947,868 (Grant Agreement ID: 101135845, funded under Digital, Industry, and Space (EU Contribution))

Duration: January 2024 – December 2027

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MANTIS

The MANTIS project aims to enhance the security of critical infrastructures, such as gas control systems, using measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution (MDI-QKD). By leveraging this advanced quantum technology, MANTIS seeks to prevent cyberattacks even if physical access to the detection systems is compromised, providing a robust solution for secure communication networks.

Project Information:

Consortium Coordinator: Fraunhofer IOF, Jena

Partners: Fraunhofer IIS (Dresden), Fraunhofer FIT (Sankt Augustin), PSI Software AG (Berlin), University of Münster

Funding: €5.11 million (with 86% funding by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, BMBF)

Duration: March 2024 - February 2027

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MultiQomm

The MultiQomm project, led by Pixel Photonics—a spin-off from the University of Münster’s Integrated Quantum Technology group under Prof. Dr. Carsten Schuck and the Responsive nanosystems group of Prof. Dr. Wolfram Pernice —aims to develop a scalable detector chip integrating various superconducting single-photon detectors. Utilizing the Münster Nanofabrication Facility (MNF), the project focuses on modular detector solutions for enhanced quantum key distribution (QKD) and industrial applications.

Project Information:

Consortium Coordinator: Pixel Photonics GmbH, Münster

Partners: University of Heidelberg, University of Münster (AG Schuck)

Funding: €2.33 million (with 88% funding by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, BMBF)

Duration: May 2023 - April 2026

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QuGrids

The QuGrids project was initiated on November 1st with partners Forschungszentrum Jülich (FZJ), RWTH Aachen, and Fraunhofer FIT. It aims to establish a profile in using quantum technologies to design, optimize, and secure energy grids for a sustainable future. Supported by generous funding from Minister Ina Brandes at the Ministry of Culture and Science of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, this project marks a pivotal advancement in sustainable energy solutions.

Project Information:

Partners: Forschungszentrum Jülich (FZJ), RWTH Aachen, Fraunhofer FIT

Funding: Part of a €27 million allocation from the Ministry of Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia (MKW NRW) for several projects

Duration: November 2023 - October 2026

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CRC 1459 - Intelligent Matter

The CRC 1459 "Intelligent Matter" investigates whether synthetic materials can exhibit intelligent properties, defined as the ability to perceive information and adapt to changing environments. This could lead to new developments such as artificial skin, soft robotics with adaptive tactility, and brain-inspired computing with reduced energy consumption. In Research Area C, our group focuses on adaptive solid-state nanosystems. Led by Prof. Dr. Carsten Schuck and Prof. Dr. Benjamin Risse, our project (C05) works on the development of nanophotonic neural networks. By integrating nonlinear, photo-responsive systems with nanophotonic devices, we aim to create scalable AI components. Our research contributes to advancements in explainable AI and adaptive neural networks, supporting the exploration of intelligent matter technologies.

Project Information:

Coordinator: CRC 1459, University of Münster                                                           

Partners: University of Münster, interdisciplinary collaboration across multiple faculties

Funding: Part of the Collaborative Research Centre funding (DFG)

Duration: Ongoing research within a multi-phase framework aimed at developing prototypes of intelligent matter.

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SURQUID

The  SURQUID project, "SUper-Resolving Quantum Imaging and Detection," is an ambitious Research and Innovation Action (RIA) funded under the Horizon 2020 Future and Emerging Technologies (FET-OPEN) program. Coordinated by the University of Münster, this project brings together experts from institutions like KTH Stockholm, FSU Jena, Fraunhofer IOF, IMEC, Swabian Instruments, and IBEO Automotive. SURQUID aims to surpass traditional limits in imaging and remote sensing by employing quantum technologies that enable super-resolution and super-sensitivity in LIDAR systems, integrating advanced quantum homodyne detection and non-classical light.

Project Information:

Coordinator: University of Münster

Partners: KTH Stockholm, FSU Jena, Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF, IMEC, Swabian Instruments, IBEO Automotive

Funding: €3,759,480 entirely funded by the European Commission

Duration: October 2020 - March 2025