This MRI proposal seeks NSF funds to develop unique cross-disciplinary Quantum Engineering Laboratory for comprehensive characterization and development of future generation of information devices that are based on quantum principles. Particularly, we propose to develop new material characterization tool capable of simultaneous millimeter-wave, magnetic resonance, and electrical experimental measurements (correlated spin and charge transport measurements) on arrays of single- electron quantum dots and other novel semiconductor materials. Intellectual merit of the proposed activity. The principal features of the proposed tool are (1) milli-Kelvin temperature and high magnetic field capabilities, required to reach high spin polarization and a quantum regime for single-electron information devices, and (2) capability for simultaneous electrical & magnetic measurement, required to examine the spin physics of charged carriers. Acquiring such a capability we will be able to understand the fundamental quantum physics in such systems and to exploit the spin degree of freedom for the new generation of information and communication devices that are based on quantum principles. To achieve these goals we propose to develop the first of its kind in the world materials characterization tool which will utilize high homogeneity (at least 10 ppm) 9 T magnet with the cold-bore to accommodate a top-loading sorption refrigerator with the base temperature of ca. 300 mK. It is proposed to develop a specialized top-loading insert to conduct synchronized electrical measurements while the spin states are manipulated by millimeter-wave pulses at 95, 130, and, possibly, 225 GHz. The instrument will be also capable of comprehensive electrical characterization of quantum dot materials at high spin polarization states as well as for electron spin resonance (ESR) measurements to understand the mechanisms of relaxation and spin-spin coupling. The broader impacts of the proposed activity. The major impact of the proposed activity will be in enhancing the infrastructure for research and education. Specifically, development of the Quantum Engineering Laboratory at NCSU fits the goal of the NSF MRI program because it will serve the following high priority areas: (1) to fill the gap between materials characterization facilities currently available in the USA and new quantum information devices which are theoretically proposed and which prototypes are already fabricated and will be fabricated in the upcoming months; (2) to facilitate the discovery of fundamental phenomena in spin-coupled and other materials containing unpaired electron spins for quantum information processing; (3) to foster the integration of these multidisciplinary efforts in quantum information devices and technology and to train students in this emerging technology; We are engaged in developing advanced instruction in this field through providing courses in engineering and chemistry at NCSU. Specifically, it is proposed that students and postdoctoral research associates will participate in all aspects of the instrument development and materials research studies. To publicize the development of next generation characterization tool it is proposed to hold a workshop during the grant period to educate the scientific community of this emerging technology. Twice a year, a short training course for students at NCSU and UNC will be offered. The course materials will be made freely available via Internet. We believe that these quantum electronic devices will become important to our Nation and therefore are in support of the national research infrastructure. This belief is supported by NSFs roadmap in information science and the developing roadmap in Quantum Computing being currently prepared by a coalition of government research funding agencies.
