The section for Quantum Physics and Information Technology designs quantum physics materials and processes to be used in sensors and information technology.

A broad term for the field is “quantum engineering”, which means to use and design methods for the study and utilization of the fundamental laws of quantum physics. Research is carried out in three subgroups:

• Nanostuctured materials
• Optics
• Quantum Information 

Nanostructured materials are expected to form the basis of a large number of the new technologies which we will see in the coming decades. The group for nanostructured materials is working in part with micro- and nanoelectronics, which can be cooled down to temperatures near the absolute point zero and used in e.g. radio astronomic receivers; in part with magnetic nanoparticles used in storing information and in medicine and biotechnology, and in part with metallic glass whose unusual qualities has many potential usages. The group for nanostructured materials has also intensified its efforts in the field of spintronics where one seeks to utilize the spin of the electrons as a control parameter in various electronic components. This research forms the basis of the development of ‘quantum informatics’ which, through its use of the spin of the electrons (spin-up and spin-down, is expected to lead to a whole new generation of quantum computers with far more effective data processing. The group is recognized worldwide for its research. Collaborations include the University of Copenhagen and Risø DTU as well as universities and research centres in USA, Great Britain, Sweden, and Russia etc.

The Optics Group conducts research with the purpose of allowing us to utilize the ever faster technological breakthroughs to further fundamental research into the unique quantum mechanical properties of light and use this information for the greater good. Furthermore, the Optics Group is working towards increasing its international collaborations with other groups outside DTU. Photonics represents another possible technology for the design of quantum computers.

The Quantum Information Group. Since its inception the group has been active in the study of new quantum plasmonics systems, the study of novel quantum information “cleaning” systems and the production of nonclassical light.