The project SmaraQ brings quantum computing optics onto the chip
AMO GmbH, QUDORA Technologies GmbH and Fraunhofer IAF have joined forces to replace the hundreds of discrete optical components currently used in ion-trap quantum computers with a compact on-chip solution that will enable more scalable architectures. This ambitious research goal is supported by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) through the project SmaraQ.
Quantum computers operate in a fundamentally different way to classical ones, harnessing quantum mechanical effects to achieve significant computational advantages for certain types of problems. Today, one of the most promising approaches to quantum computing is based on ion traps, which offer particularly long coherence times and high-fidelity qubit control – two key quality markers in the field. However, the large number of bulky optical components and free-space lasers used in current ion trap architectures poses a significant challenge to scaling up systems and developing full-scale quantum computers.
The SmaraQ project addresses this challenge by developing UV waveguides and photonic components based on aluminum nitride (AlN) and aluminum oxide (Al2O3) that can be integrated directly onto ion-trap chips. “Chip integration represents the path forward for ion-trap quantum computing,” explains Dr. Maik Scheller, Head of Photonics at QUDORA GmbH and SmaraQ project coordinator. “We are engineering waveguide structures at the nanometer scale—ten thousand times thinner than a human hair—that deliver light with pinpoint precision exactly where our ion qubits demand it.”
The project brings together complementary expertise: QUDORA Technologies serves as coordinator and system integrator, maintaining responsibility for advancing the technology toward market maturity beyond the project timeline. Fraunhofer IAF conducts materials research and produces epitaxial AlN thin films with world leading quality. AMO GmbH uses cutting edge nano-technology fabrication capabilities to develop the photonic components on the chips. This collaboration ensures a resilient and Germany-based, independent supply chain for these enabling technologies.
The work aligns with the BMFTR’s funding initiative for enabling technologies in quantum research, which seeks to strengthen technological sovereignty in critical quantum technology supply chains while reinforcing Germany’s and Europe’s position in quantum computing and quantum sensing.
The project’s name, SmaraQ, reflects the focus on precision and miniaturisation. It is inspired by the Smaragdkolibri (Blue-tailed Emerald Hummingbird), which is known not only for its small size, but also for its ability to perceive ultraviolet light and remain suspended in the air with extreme precision (Photo: © Daniel Stuhlpfarrer/Pixabay).
About SmaraQ
SmaraQ (Integrated Photonics with Aluminum Nitride and Oxide for Ion-Trap-Based Quantum Computing) is a research project funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) running from 2025 to 2028. The project brings together expertise in materials science, photonics, and quantum computing to develop integrated optical components at nanometer scale. The work demonstrates how enabling technologies can accelerate quantum computing development while strengthening Germany’s and Europe’s technological sovereignty in critical supply chains.
https://www.quantensysteme.info/projektatlas/projekte/q/smaraq
