Quantum measurement and photonic integrated circuits
Zaijun Chen, Professor
Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Applications for Fall 2025 are closed for this project.
Our lab is developing a cutting-edge integrated photonic system for quantum sensing, computation, and AI acceleration. The first part of research focuses on fabricating and characterizing ultra-low-loss thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) photonic circuits that generate, manipulate, and detect squeezed light at telecom wavelengths (1550 nm). The second part includes theoretical and experimental studies on its application to quantum (quantum sensing, quantum computing) and classical (optical computing, AI acceleration) applications.
Role: The student will assist in experimental efforts related to:
• Quantum measurement protocols using balanced homodyne detection
• Phase stabilization of integrated cavities using heterodyne locking
• Characterization of nanophotonic components (resonators, interferometers, photodetectors)
• Data analysis and simulation of quantum noise spectra
The broader impact of this project spans next-generation quantum sensors, on-chip photonic neural networks, and compact quantum signal processors. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a nationally funded effort at the intersection of quantum optics and integrated photonics. Significant contributions would be recognized as co-authors of scientific publications.
Qualifications: Depending on skill level and interest, students may be involved in:
• Operating optical testbeds (lasers, detectors, spectrum analyzers, interferometers)
• Running control software (Python/MATLAB-based)
• Analyzing optical spectra and quantum noise spectral densities
Students will work under the supervision of Dr. Wenxuan Jia in close collaboration with other team members at UC Berkeley and partner institutions (MIT, USC). They will be invited to attend some of our weekly project meetings with Prof. Zaijun Chen and Prof. Mengjie Yu.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Wenxuan Jia, Post-Doc
Hours: to be negotiated