Internet of Things: Quantum Sensors Challenge program

The first generation of quantum devices, which included lasers and semiconductor-based transistors, brought a technological revolution and transformed society. A new generation of quantum technologies is emerging, unique in their abilities to leverage and control previously inaccessible properties of nature, allowing for stunning new capabilities, such as sensors with precision and sensitivity well beyond the known limits of those in use today.

Quantum sensors have the potential to make improvements in navigation, medical imaging, geological surveying, defence, safety, security and beyond. Quantum sensors are expected to be one of the first types of quantum technologies to be commercialized and adopted.

Now open: call for proposals

Now open: The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) have launched a call for proposals to advance the industrial readiness of quantum sensing technologies.

The deadline to apply is June 14, 2024. Submit your entire collaborative project through the NSERC portal.

  • Learn more about the call for proposals

    The NRC's Collaborative Science, Technology and Innovation Program (CSTIP) facilitates collaboration between NRC researchers, academic researchers, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) – bringing together the best minds to deliver breakthroughs that matter to Canadians across the innovation continuum.

    The NRC-NSERC joint call requires teams of academics, SMEs and NRC researchers to assemble. Funding for academics will be provided through NSERC, contribution funding for SMEs will be provided by CSTIP, and the NRC will support the efforts of NRC researchers. Together, the two agencies will provide an envelope of up to $12 million over 3 years.

    The deadline to apply is June 14, 2024. Contact us at NRC.QuantumSensors-Capteursquantiques.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca if you have any questions.

    The NRC supports the National Quantum Strategy through internal programs, interdepartmental projects and collaborative research via Challenge programs. The Internet of Things: Quantum Sensors Challenge program received a portion of funding under the commercialization pillar through CSTIP.

    Contact us at NRC.QuantumSensors-Capteursquantiques.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca if you have any questions.

About the program

Hosted by the National Research Council of Canada's (NRC) Security and Disruptive Technologies Research Centre (SDT), the goal of the Internet of Things: Quantum Sensors Challenge program (QSP) is to enable the development of revolutionary sensors that harness the extreme sensitivity of quantum through collaborative research and development with quantum and domain experts. The ambition is that this new generation of sensor systems, performing beyond the limits of classical physics, may be engineered and commercialized for applications that benefit Canadians.

Vision

To support Canada's ambition to be a global leader in quantum technologies.

Challenge Statement

To develop a disruptive generation of quantum sensors that are orders of magnitude better than sensors that exist today.

Objectives

  • Strengthening of the Canadian quantum technology innovation ecosystem, including increased IP portfolio.
  • Advancement of quantum sensing technologies towards adoption and commercialization.

Current areas of focus

Quantum photonics

Developing new or more compatible quantum light sources, detectors and other enabling components in order to advance fundamental science and the commercialization of optics-based quantum sensing technologies.

Chip-based quantum systems

Transitioning quantum systems onto chips in order to create a path towards commercialization and integration into priority application spaces such as defence, environment and health.

Quantum metrology

Developing new, highly precise sensing devices, based on quantum effects, which will improve upon state-of-the-art measurement and calibration technologies. Metrology and standardization will enable technologies to advance towards commercialization.

Feature projects

For a list of collaborative QSP research and development projects, please visit Funded collaborative R&D programs and initiatives.

Program team

The NRC's Internet of Things: Quantum Sensors Challenge program is made up of a highly-skilled and multi-disciplinary team possessing a broad range of expertise in business and advisory services, and program management.

Peter C. Mason, Program Director
Aimee K. Gunther, Deputy Director and Quantum Photonics Theme Lead
Alicia Kam, Chip-Based Quantum Systems Theme Lead
Andrew Todd, Quantum Metrology Theme Lead
Rebecca Trueman, Innovation Investment Advisor

Getting involved

Grants and contributions funding is available to help defray the costs of research for academic institutions, small and medium-sized enterprises, and other eligible recipients collaborating with NRC researchers.

Find out more about collaborating with us, and how to apply.

Express your interest

News

Contact us

If you are interested in collaborating with us, making investments in this area or if you have any questions, please contact:

Peter C. Mason, PhD
Director, Quantum Sensors Challenge program

Aimee K. Gunther, PhD
Deputy Director, Quantum Sensors Challenge program

Email: NRC.QuantumSensors-Capteursquantiques.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca

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