Q-MIC: Quantum-enhanced on-chip interference microscopy

Horizon 2020
DEIB Role: Partner
Start date: 2018-10-01
Length: 36 months
Project abstract
The project aims at developing a new on-chip differential interference contrast microscope based on an unconventional birefringence lens-free configuration, the latest quantum sources and single-photon image sensors. The QMIC platform will reach unprecedented sensitivities (a few atomic layers, of the order of 1 Å) over large field-of-view (tens of mm2) in the low light (single-photon) regime. This unique combination of features will allow, on the one hand, the first demonstration of a practical quantum device for imaging, while providing, on the other hand, a platform for fundamentally new lines of research in quantum metrology, including the interaction of quantum states and bio-species. It is also an important goal of the project to facilitate that the quantum enhanced on-chip interference microscope be built with consumer components, especially thanks to the project’s effort in photonic and electronic integration of entangled photon sources and single photon avalanche diode image sensor arrays. This would extend the impact well beyond the scientific interests and lead to portable, high throughput, non-invasive, and label free sensing of transparent objects, such as cells, microorganisms, viruses and proteins. For example, microarrays of biomarkers with millions of spots could be read in a single shot, with no need of fluorescence marking. Other applications include the detection of small particles in the microelectronics industry and in-line quality control of transparent substrates for roll-to-roll production of flexible optoelectronic devices.
Project results
The project has been presented at the "2018 IEEE Nuclear Science Symposium and Medical Imaging Conference" (Sydney, 10-17 November 2018), with a presentation of the title: SPADs and TDCs for photon-counting, timing and gated-imaging at 30 ps resolution and 60% efficiency ”(F. Villa, et al.).
On March 20th and 21st, 2019 the first technical meeting of the project is held at the Politecnico di Milano.
Publications and Media Impacts
On March 20th and 21st, 2019 the first technical meeting of the project is held at the Politecnico di Milano.
Publications and Media Impacts