Game-Changing Quantum Research To Revolutionize Communication Security

Information is travelling faster than ever before, connecting people across the globe at the touch of a button with the help of fibre optic cables spanning the ocean floor.

While the expansive systems that make the internet possible have grown in efficiency with time, security risks continue to leave sensitive data vulnerable — an issue Jianbo Gao is determined to solve.

The Brock University Associate Professor of Chemistry aims to address this pressing global challenge through groundbreaking research that will transform fibre optic cables into a next-generation communication technology that is ultra-secure, intelligent and capable of lightspeed global connectivity.

Gao is conducting this research through a collaboration with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) under the Internet of Things: Quantum Sensors Challenge program.

The initiative connects NRC scientists with experts in universities to develop sensors for next-generation technologies. Gao — an expert in quantum materials — was awarded more than $575,000 to conduct this work.

Gao makes quantum dots, or lab-manufactured nanocrystals, that act as semiconductors by allowing electricity to flow and converting light into current. These dots can be used in a wide array of objects, such as solar panels.

In this latest research, Gao and his team are using quantum dots to make photosensing chips that will be integrated into fibre optic cables.

The researchers will cover the chips in a black coating that will allow them to pick up all wavelengths of light.

This increased amount of light, in turn, is converted to electrical signals that will “facilitate secure, reliable, lightspeed transmission of communication over long distances,” says Gao.

“Robust communication security and cybersecurity are fundamental to our lives,” he says. “The leakage of sensitive financial information, such as credit card, banking and cryptocurrency data, can result in substantial economic and societal consequences.”

Current information communication uses signals that are like a heavy rainfall, Gao says. A portion of the signal, like water, can be disrupted without anyone noticing, since plenty of signal remains. In contrast, photosensing chips use and detect extremely weak signals — down to single photons — which operate more like sending one raindrop at a time. If someone tries to intercept the signal, they cannot take just a small portion without affecting it, he says. This disturbance is immediately noticeable from the receiver, making any eavesdropping attempt detectable.

Gao and his team are using innovative laser equipment in their Ultrafast Photophysics of Quantum Materials Lab to carry out their research.

“This partnership strengthens Dr. Gao’s immense expertise, talent and drive for creating innovations to advance the world’s leading-edge technologies,” says Brock Vice-President, Research Tim Kenyon. “Brock University’s partnership with the NRC positions the University to play a unique role in advancing quantum technology, a transformative frontier comparable to the steam engine and electricity revolutions.”

Chris Bittle, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, said the partnership with the NRC “showcases the incredible innovation taking place at Brock University and right here in Niagara.”

“By working with the National Research Council, researchers are helping position Canada at the forefront of quantum technology, developing solutions that will strengthen communication security and support a more connected, resilient future.”