Quantum technologies: discover the projects awarded funding under the thematic ASTRID call
The ASTRID Quantum Technologies programme is fully funded by AID and hosted by ANR. It is intended to support research of a dual nature, and with a low level of technological maturity, in one of the following three areas: sensors, algorithms, and cryptography – communication.
Nine proposals were submitted and four research projects, lasting between 18 and 36 months, were awarded a total funding of €1.2 million.
- The CARDAMONE project, coordinated by Fabien Bretenaker (Light, Material and Interfaces Laboratory), will study the experimental and theoretical advantages and limitations of Rydberg atom-based sensors for electromagnetic field detection and imaging. The project will propose optical solutions based on modulations of the probe and coupling fields.
- The CoQuIA project, coordinated by Franck Pereira (Time Space Reference Systems UMR), aims to make laser beamsplitters in atomic interferometers more effective and more robust to environmental variations by developing new pulse-shaping methods and optimal quantum control methods. The research should support the development of atomic sensors that are better suited to the needs of users of inertial navigation systems and other on-board applications.
- The QPEG project, coordinated by Thomas Ayral (Bull SAS – Atos), aims to develop a new type of algorithm that can simulate hundreds of quantum bits (current quantum computing simulations are limited to around 40 quantum bits) using “compress quantum states” methods. The algorithm will be incorporated into the Atos simulation platform and used to qualify the potential of quantum technologies.
- The SoLuQS project, coordinated by Anthony Martin (Nice Institute of Physics), focuses on connecting quantum systems for which space segment remains the only potential application owing to the absence of reliable quantum repeaters. The project will seek to develop, in France, space-compatible systems for establishing a secure Earth-to-space communication link ahead of future satellite realizations.
View the list of projects awarded funding on the call for proposals page
The thematic ASTRID call is additional to the ASTRID programme, which was launched by ANR and the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) in 2011 to support highly exploratory and innovative research projects, and to encourage disruptive scientific and technological breakthroughs with potential applications in defence, civil research and industry.
