Advancing Quantum Imaging and Sensing for a Better Future

Your Partner

The medical sector in particular could benefit significantly from this innovative technology. The quantum imaging method developed by the IOF research team can be used to differentiate between previously hidden biosubstances based on their characteristic molecular vibrations. The method promises great progress in detecting and combating various types of cancer by making the characteristic accumulation or expression of certain proteins visible. This method can also be used in drug research to gain extensive knowledge about the distribution of biosubstances.

Our Services and Competencies

• Quantum Imaging & Sensing Solutions
  Development of advanced imaging and sensing systems using entangled photons for high-resolution and low-light applications in fields like medicine, environmental monitoring, and material science.
• Photon Pair Source Development
  Custom design and optimization of photon pair sources for quantum applications, including nonlinear crystals and waveguides tailored for specific requirements.
• Fluorescence Enhancement with Entangled Photons
  Advanced fluorescence techniques such as entangled two-photon absorption (eTPA) and fluorescence lifetime imaging (eFLIM) to enhance signal clarity and reduce photobleaching.
• Quantum Spectroscopy & Spectrometers
  Quantum-enhanced spectrometers for precise spectral analysis, leveraging nonlinear interferometers for applications in biology, medicine, and environmental monitoring.

• Quantum State Tomography & Information
  Quantum state reconstruction of undetected photons for pure polarization states and optimization of quantum state measurements for quantum key distribution (QKD) and computing.
• Custom Prototypes & Industry Solutions
  Tailored development of quantum imaging and sensing prototypes, offering custom solutions for integration into industrial, research, and commercial applications.
• Consulting & Training
  Expert consultation and training on quantum technologies, helping businesses and researchers to integrate and apply quantum-based solutions effectively.

Our Research Groups

Our Technological developments are currently being driven forward in the following groups:

Quantum-Enhanced Imaging & Sensing Technology: 

The Quantum Enhanced Imaging and Sensing Group specializes in the development of advanced quantum technologies, focusing on innovative imaging, sensing, and spectroscopy solutions for diverse applications across various industries.

Extensive competences and special expertise 

Our Quantum Enhanced Imaging and Sensing Group brings together a diverse range of extensive skills and expertise in quantum technologies, optical engineering, and applied research. Our team excels in the development of sophisticated photon pair sources, leveraging nonlinear crystals and waveguides to optimize performance for a variety of quantum applications. With deep knowledge in quantum optics, we specialize in the design and implementation of quantum-enhanced imaging and sensing systems, delivering cutting-edge solutions for applications in medicine, environmental monitoring, and material science.

We are experts in the application of quantum entanglement to enhance imaging resolutions, sensitivity, and signal clarity, utilizing techniques such as entangled two-photon absorption (eTPA) and fluorescence lifetime imaging (eFLIM). Our capabilities extend to the development of custom quantum spectrometers and the use of quantum state tomography for precise measurements in quantum communication and computing.

Through continuous collaboration with leading academic institutions and industry partners, our team stays at the forefront of quantum research, ensuring the development of highly innovative and practical technologies. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of quantum science and translating theoretical advancements into tangible, real-world applications that have a transformative impact across multiple sectors.

Markets and Applications

Our team offers a wealth of experience across a range of specialized areas within quantum technologies, providing cutting-edge solutions to diverse markets. We have a proven track record of innovation and excellence, delivering transformative outcomes across industries. The following are the key areas where our team excels, along with their applications:

• Quantum Imaging and Sensing 
  Markets: Healthcare, Environmental Monitoring, Industrial Inspection, Defense 
  We specialize in quantum-enhanced imaging and sensing systems that offer superior resolution and sensitivity, even in low-light conditions. Applications include medical imaging, such as detecting early-stage cancers, environmental analysis like microplastics detection in water, and industrial inspection for quality control in manufacturing.


• Photon Pair Source Development 
  Markets: Telecommunications, Research and Development, Defense 
  Our expertise in nonlinear optics enables the design of custom photon pair sources for a wide range of quantum applications. These sources are integral to quantum communication systems, secure data transmission, and next-generation quantum networks.


• Fluorescence Enhancement Using Entangled Photons 
  Markets: Biomedical Research, Diagnostics, Life Sciences 
  We enhance fluorescence imaging through techniques like entangled two-photon absorption (eTPA) and fluorescence lifetime imaging (eFLIM), improving signal clarity and resolution. This is particularly beneficial for molecular imaging, live-cell imaging, and the detection of biomarkers in diagnostics.


• Quantum Spectroscopy 
  Markets: Environmental Monitoring, Chemical Analysis, Pharmaceuticals 
  Our quantum spectrometers, based on nonlinear interferometers, provide highly accurate spectral analysis. These systems are used in a variety of industries, including environmental monitoring for pollutant detection, chemical analysis of complex compounds, and pharmaceutical quality control.


• Quantum State Tomography and Information 
  Markets: Quantum Communication, Cybersecurity, Quantum Computing 
  We offer expertise in quantum state reconstruction, enabling the precise measurement of undetected photons. This technology is essential for quantum key distribution (QKD), improving secure communication systems, and advancing quantum computing for faster data processing.


• Prototype Development and Custom Solutions 
  Markets: Manufacturing, Research, Education 
  Our team develops bespoke quantum imaging and sensing prototypes tailored to industry-specific needs. Whether for academic research, industrial applications, or educational demonstrations, we deliver solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing technologies.


• Collaborative Research and Industry Partnerships 
  Markets: Academia, Industry, Startups 
  Through our partnerships with leading academic institutions and industry leaders, we offer collaborative research and technology transfer services. This helps businesses and research organizations leverage the potential of quantum technologies in real-world applications, from prototype development to large-scale deployment.

By leveraging our expertise in quantum technologies, we support a wide range of industries in harnessing the full potential of quantum-based solutions to solve complex challenges and drive innovation.

Your Benefits in Working with Us

• Many years of experience and expertise in photonic quantum technology
• Adaptability to required scenarios
• Cross-departmental development - covering the entire supply chain of quantum photonic technologies from design to integration
• Friendly and international environment

Technical Equipment

Our laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art optical and optomechanical components and systems. Our laser sources cover spectral ranges from UV (266 nm) to MIR range (2.7 µm), with output powers (CW) from a few mW up to 5 W. 

We have a wide range of non-linear crystals made of materials such as PPLN, PPKTP, BBO, AGS, LGS, both in bulk and integrated form, for the generation of photon pairs to cover the electromagnetic spectrum from the UV (350 nm) to the MIR range (10 µm). 

In the field of detector technology, we use various single-photon Si and InGaAs SPAD detectors as well as IR superconducting nanowire detectors. We are also equipped with several cameras for single-photon detection based on different technologies (sCMOS, ICCD, SPAD array).