Manipulation of single electrons and single excitons by surface acoustic waves

• Applicant: Dr. Paulo V. Santos
• Subject Area: Experimental Condensed Matter Physics
• Term: from 2015 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 284105099

On-demand single particle transfer between distant quantum dots combined with quantum gates based on particle-particle interactions provides a pathway for the realization of scalable quantum systems. It has recently been shown that moving quantum dots created by surface acoustic waves (SAWs) can transfer single electrons as well as exciton ensembles on-demand with very high fidelity between remote locations in a semiconductor quantum well separated by several micrometers. Combined with the recent demonstration of single exciton confinement, these results open exciting possibilities for quantum electron-optics in solid-state systems. This project aims at establishing a common platform for quantum interaction of photonic and electronic excitations based on single electrons and single excitons flying along quantum transport channels provided by moving SAW potentials. The motivation for using flying excitons lies on their easy inter-conversion to photons, thus allowing optical probing and providing a natural interface between electronic and photonic excitation. We will investigate the storage and transport of single excitons by SAWs using techniques similar to the ones developed for single electrons. Furthermore, we will study processes for the interaction between single electrons during motion as well as their application to excitons. The ultimate goal will be the demonstration of particle-particle interactions based on the coherent tunneling between adjacent quantum channels for single flying electrons as well as flying excitons. The latter will provide the necessary ingredients for the future implementation of quantum gates for both electrons and excitons compatible with long-range, photon-based transfer of quantum information.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: France, Israel
• Cooperation Partners: Klaus Biermann, Ph.D.; Dr. Christopher Bäuerle; Professor Dr. Ronen Rapaport; Abbes Tahraoui, Ph.D.