The Photonics Packaging and Systems Integration Group at Tyndall National Institute is partnering with other Irish quantum technology experts, for a new project that will help future-proof EU communications infrastructure.
The project collaborators will combine their expertise and resources to add an extra security layer to communications infrastructure and the data it transmits. This will ensure it is secure and future-proofed against the rising threat of cyber-attacks similar to the HSE hack that crippled the public health service in May 2021, at an estimated cost of €80M.
The Tyndall Group will focus on developing novel cryogenic packaging technologies for quantum communication systems. This includes installing a state-of-the-art 3D micro-optics printing system that can directly print optical coupling structures on integrated photonic devices with sub-micron precision.
The IrelandQCI project aims to build a secure Quantum Communication Infrastructure across the whole EU. The project is coordinated by Waterford’s Walton Institute in South East Technological University (SETU). Other partners include specialists in quantum technologies in Trinity College Dublin, with support from University College Dublin (UCD), Maynooth University (MU), the Irish Centre for High-End Computing (University of Galway), HEAnet and ESB Telecoms.
Quantum Communications Infrastructure (QCI) network is a first for Ireland and will be deployed over the next two years by the IrelandQCI. This pilot network forms part of Europe’s initiative EuroQCI, which aims to build a secure Quantum Communication Infrastructure across the whole EU. The Irish Government is committing €5 million to the initiative, matching the €5 million in EU funding secured by IrelandQCI through the EU’s Digital Europe Programme. This funding will result in the deployment of a pilot QCI network across Ireland by 2024.
Professor Peter O’Brien, Head of Tyndall’s Photonics Packaging and Systems Integration Group, said: “We are seeing rapid growth in demand for advanced photonic-electronic packaging solutions for emerging quantum applications. IrelandQCI provides us with a unique opportunity to collaborate with quantum experts in Ireland and develop novel packaging solutions that address the many demanding technical requirements for secure quantum communication systems.”
Professor William Scanlon, CEO, Tyndall National Institute, said “This collaboration further strengthens our plans to grow and enhance Tyndall’s quantum engineering capabilities. We look forward to working with leading Irish academic and industry experts in this field and contributing to the future-proofing of European communications infrastructure.”