Synthetic Quantum Nanostructures (SynQuaNon)

Background
The Defense Sciences Office (DSO) at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative research proposals in the area of synthetic quantum materials that enable enhanced functionalities or novel capabilities for quantum information science (QIS). In particular, the SynQuaNon program aims to develop and benchmark novel routes to enhanced superconducting (SC) nanoelectronic devices based on electronic metamaterials.

Work Details
It is anticipated that successful performers in this program will combine innovations in functional materials engineering with device-scale benchmarking and characterization to demonstrate quantum nanoelectronic devices with enhanced performance and improved size, weight, and power (SWaP) metrics. The range of devices that will be explored within this program as a testbed for novel quantum metamaterials includes, but is not limited to, SC qubits capable of operation at elevated temperatures and frequency regimes; single photon detectors and bolometers with beyond-state-of-the-art (SoA) sensitivity and timing resolution for sensing, imaging, and communications; and quantum-limited signal processing technologies for scalable computing, millimeter-wave communications, and quantum-enhanced sensing.

Period of Performance
The period of performance for the SynQuaNon program is expected to start in March 2024. The schedule will be synchronized across performers as required, with regular teleconference meetings scheduled for progress reporting and problem identification. The program also includes a two-day Principal Investigator meeting held approximately every six months with locations split between the east and west coasts of the United States.