From quantum computing to biomedical implants and electronics, learn about someÌýof ourÌýresearch projectsÌýwithinÌýtheÌýMicrosystems Research Group below:Ìý
Ìý
MEMS basedÌýopticalÌýcross-switch (OXC)ÌýÌý
This project is about the development of an all-optical cross switch using MEMS technology for applications in provisioning and restoration of optical communication networks. Whilst many silica fiber-basedÌýoptical switches have been reported, this development uniquely addresses the monolithic integration of the switch within the fabric of planar silica waveguides on a silicon substrate.ÌýÌý
This is facilitated by the successful development of two novel and critical components:ÌýÌý
- AÌýlow voltage bistable actuation mechanism for out-of-plane actuation of the micromirror which is monolithicallyÌýinegratedÌýonto the actuator.ÌýÌý
- A pair of planar silicaÌýfocussingÌýelement for low loss free-space propagation within the switch.Ìý
For more information, contactÌýProf. Chee Yee Kwok.Ìý
Optical interconnect for 3D integration ofÌýintegratedÌýcircuitsÌýÌý
This project is about the development of optical interconnects for 3D integration. In 3D integration of integrated circuits, the silicon chips are stacked on top of each other. Aggressive dimensional scaling has brought us into the 32nm node. 3D integration will allow the eraÌýgigascaleÌýintegration to meet theÌýevergrowingÌýdemands of greater functionality in integrated circuit systems.Ìý
For more information, contactÌýProfessor Chee Yee Kwok.ÌýÌý
Integrated quantum computer devicesÌýÌý
Prof. AndrewÌýDzurakÌýleadsÌýseveralÌýresearch projects within the Integrated Quantum Computer Devices Program of the Centre for Quantum Computer Technology (CQCT). The program provides engineeringÌýdesign,Ìýmodelling and nanofabrication of fully configuredÌýSi:PÌýqubits and associated pathway devices, making extensive use of the Semiconductor Nanofabrication Facility (SNF).Ìý
For more information, contactÌýProfessor AndrewÌýDzurak.Ìý
Quantum measurementÌýÌý
Professor Andrea Morello managesÌýtheÌýQuantum Measurement &ÌýControlÌýChip Program within the Centre for Quantum Computer Technology (CQCT).Ìý.ÌýThe research projects within this program focus on the coherent control and readout of a single-P-atom electron spin qubits in silicon.ÌýThroughout 2009, a new donorÌýspinÌýqubitÌýarchitecture developed within the Centre was investigated in depth, achieving one of the most important milestones in solid-state spin qubits research-the single-shot readout of an electron spin.Ìý
For more information, contactÌýProfessor Andrea Morello.Ìý
Development of RF MEMS technology for modern wireless communications systemsÌýÌý
In modern wireless communication systems, information data transmissionÌýmustÌýbe able to handle multiple frequency bands and to provide multipleÌýchannelsÌýfor different signals. The solution is to combineÌýtheÌýincrease in bandwidth (ultra-wide bandwidth) and speed, thus develop technologies for the transceiverÌýarchitecture.ÌýÌý
ThisÌýrequires new technologies and fabrication processes for circuits, devices and components, as well as the development of new materials.ÌýOurÌýfocusÌýisÌýto develop RF MEMS technology for reconfigurable communication systems with multifunctional capabilities.Ìý
For more information, contactÌýProfessorÌýRodicaÌýRamer.
Ultra-low temperatureÌýelectronicsÌýÌý
This research is motivated by the need for controlling andÌýobservingÌýspin-based silicon quantum computing processors in future quantum computers. Such quantum computing processors will be operating at temperatures below 1K. To facilitate the quantum processor control, conventional electric circuits are required operating at temperatures below 4.2K.Ìý
For more information, contactÌýDrÌýTorstenÌýLehmann.ÌýÌý
Circuits for biomedicalÌýimplantsÌýÌý
This research is motivated by the strict power and reliability requirements of electronic implants and capsules, such as cochlear implants, vision prostheses and wireless endoscope. The available power in such systems is veryÌýlimited:Ìýeither due to limits on safeÌýtranscutaneousÌýpower transfer or the limited capacity of installed batteries.ÌýTheÌýfocusÌýof this research is to reduce the power dissipation of the required circuit functions.Ìý
For more information, contactÌýDrÌýTorstenÌýLehmann.