ZAQuant is a cross-faculty and interdisciplinary research center for quantum sensor research. The center is intended for the development of nanophotonic quantum sensors that will help achieve pioneering advancements in sensitivity, specificity and energy efficiency in the field of sensor development. Construction of the ZAQuant in Allmandring on the University of Stuttgart’s Vaihingen campus began in January 2018. The approximately 8.500 square-meter building will go into operation in 2020.
Currently, the development of the fundamental principles of quantum sensors is the subject of research at various research facilities worldwide. Companies, such as Microsoft and Google Labs, are also working on the systemic integration of classic sensors. However, the research approach followed at ZAQuant is unique. It strives to go beyond the physical principles and specific platforms, such as diamonds or quantum gases, and seeks to systematically combine and integrate various quantum sensors with the aim of creating quantum devices.
The new research facility will provide an entirely new kind of infrastructure, including a laboratory for the synthesis of ultrapure quantum materials, a laboratory for precision structuring and a laboratory for the precision measurement of quantum sensors. In total, 15 research groups and three ZAQuant Fellows with approximately 70 employees, led by Prof. Wrachtrup, Director of the 3rd Physics, will be employed at the center.
With ZAQuant, the University of Stuttgart is seeking to underline its strategy in the interdisciplinary support of young scientists. Three groups of young scientists will be created that will work simultaneously at two of the faculties or institutions involved, in order to facilitate the transfer of technology and exchange of knowledge. Furthermore, the University of Stuttgart will also be funding ZAQuant fellowships for women that will specifically target research projects undertaken by female scientists at the center. The industrial sector will also be involved at ZAQuant right from the beginning – the location of the new research facility is expedient as it is located in close proximity to the region’s ‘tech-savvy’ companies.