Summary
In this project we develop a novel infrared camera with low noise and high detection efficiency for biomedical applications of optical coherence tomography (OCT) using quantum materials. OCT is a technique used to image the back of the eye and allow for the diagnosis of detrimental eye conditions, for e.g., macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. It can also be used for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. However, current OCT systems are limited by their low sensitivity and spatial resolution. To provide more precise early diagnosis of potentially blinding ocular diseases, we utilize the unique expertise of a collaborative team of researchers to develop an infrared camera with sub-micron resolution and single-photon sensitivity: design and nano fabrication of quantum sensors (Reimer), design and fabrication of CMOS electrical read-out circuits to make the camera (Karim and Levine), and extensive knowledge and research expertise in the area of OCT (Bizheva). At the heart of the infrared camera is a single photon detector recently developed through another TQT-supported project, Next Generation Quantum Sensors. This sensor is based on nanostructured arrays of tapered semiconductor nanowires and is capable to detect light with high efficiency, speed, and timing resolution over an unprecedented wavelength range from the UV to infrared, all while operating at room temperature. This sensor will be integrated into a prototype camera and into existing OCT systems to realize enhanced OCT images of the human retina and cornea in-vivo.
Related Content

Identifying the Potential of Quantum Dots to Detect and Disrupt Tau Protein Aggregation in Alzheimer’s Disease
Specific tests for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) diagnosis are currently unavailable, despite AD being the leading cause of dementia. One hallmark of AD progression is the aggregation of tau proteins into paired helical filaments and neurofibrillary tangles, which is accelerated by the hyperphosphorylation of Tau proteins. However, the mechanism by which the hyperphosphorylated tau accelerates protein […]
March 27, 2023

On-Chip Microwave-Optical Quantum Interface
Summary In this project we develop a quantum interface between microwave and optical photons as a key enabling technology of a hybrid quantum network. In such a network, the robust optical photons carry quantum information through optical fibres over long distances, while superconducting microwave circuits protected from thermal photon noise by the low temperature […]
October 29, 2018

Quantum Light Sources Based on Deterministic Photon Subtraction
Summary This project develops new sources of light that utilize quantum entanglement to enhance imaging resolution and detection. We aim to go beyond simple photon pairs and advance our understanding and control of new quantum states of light. Our approach uses deterministic single-photon subtraction (removing of a specific photon from a pulse of light) […]
July 13, 2018

Harnessing the Promise of Quantum Materials for Future Electronic Devices
Summary Two-dimensional (2D) quantum materials, such as graphene and molybdenum disulfide, have great potential for use in future flexible and wearable electronics applications. With traditional silicon-based electronics nearing their theoretical performance limits, nano-electronics made from 2D quantum materials offer breakthrough opportunities for energy-efficient, wearable ubiquitous computation. In this project, we will study integration of […]
June 14, 2018