A new milestone for quantum research
What would a world look like in which tap-proof communication, ultra-precise measurement technology and revolutionary computer technologies were a reality? To achieve these goals, the Bau- und Liegenschaftsbetrieb des Landes Nordrhein-Westfalen (BLB NRW) planned, realised and today handed over the "Photonic Quantum Systems Laboratory" (PhoQS Lab) for Paderborn University. The state-of-the-art research building is a centre for cutting-edge international research in the field of quantum photonics - with the potential to fundamentally change our digital world.
In the PhoQS Lab, scientists with different areas of expertise will work together to create something new in the field of quantum photonics and bring basic research into application. Research into photonic, i.e. light-driven, quantum technologies is of particular importance for key optical technologies with a very broad field of application - from communication technology to sensor technology.
One example is quantum cryptography, which is set to revolutionise banking transactions, government data and personal information through tap-proof encryption. The laboratory will also set new standards in measurement technology: High-precision quantum sensors could be used in future for more precise distance measurements in vehicles. At the same time, quantum computers are opening up unprecedented computing power for materials science and artificial intelligence. Photonic quantum chips also have the long-term potential as miniaturised processors to form the foundation for a quantum internet with network quantum computers. The internationally recognised scientists from the "Institute for Photonic Quantum Systems", which the PhoQS Lab will house in the future, are thus contributing their expertise to one of the most important technologies of our time.
A highly specialised building for excellent research
The new building was realised by BLB NRW in close cooperation with Paderborn University. Within a construction period of three years, a highly technical research building was created, which was built in compliance with sustainable aspects in order to fulfil the highest scientific demands. A precise planning and realisation phase as well as close cooperation between the university, client, planning offices and construction companies enabled the building to be completed on schedule.
With a gross floor area of 7,950 square metres, the PhoQS Lab comprises four full storeys and a partial storey for the technical facilities. Special structural measures such as the static separation of the office and laboratory wings by means of a sound-decoupling settlement joint guarantee vibration-free measurements in the laboratory area. The most sensitive measuring equipment rests on specially decoupled foundations that lie directly on the stable rocky ground and minimise external vibrations.
A central element is the 1,000 square metre clean room area on the lower floor. Here, state-of-the-art technologies ensure an extremely clean environment with precise control of temperature, humidity and the absence of particles - essential for highly sensitive research.
The building fulfils high sustainability standards and is certified with 'Silver' according to the Sustainable Building Rating System (BNB). A photovoltaic system, a highly insulated building envelope and efficient heat recovery help to reduce energy consumption and optimise the ecological footprint. When the project planning for the building began, BNB Silver certification was not yet mandatory. Nevertheless, BLB NRW took sustainable building criteria into account at an early stage. This meant that certification could be applied for without any additional adjustments.
A flagship project for NRW as a centre of research
The total costs of around 82.7 million euros are being borne jointly by the state and the university; the federal government is supporting the project with funding totalling 24.69 million euros. The PhoQS Lab project has already been awarded the top rating of "outstanding" by the German Council of Science and Humanities, which evaluates scientific projects and makes recommendations for research policy. On this basis, it was approved by the Joint Science Conference (GWK) in May 2020. In the GWK, the science and finance ministries of the federal and state governments work together with the aim of further promoting Germany's performance as a centre of research. Their decision is proof of the future supra-regional importance of the PhoQS Lab and was a decisive prerequisite for the further planning and realisation of the project.
The PhoQS Lab will not only strengthen the scientific excellence of Paderborn University, but can also provide economic impetus in the long term. The establishment of a scientific ecosystem will create national and international partnerships with leading institutions and companies, which will further increase the innovative strength of the region and form a basis for start-ups.
Statements
Science Minister Ina Brandes: "Quantum technologies are a key to a progressive and better life. For example, we are hoping for more precise and faster medical diagnoses, tap-proof communication or a quantum internet that will revolutionise our digital world. In North Rhine-Westphalia, we are setting new standards in cutting-edge quantum research - also thanks to the Institute for Photonic Quantum Systems in Paderborn. With the PhoQS Lab, an outstanding research infrastruture with excellent conditions for photonic quantum research has been created. This is forward-looking for the research landscape in North Rhine-Westphalia and will contribute to expanding our state's national technological leadership in quantum technology."
Dr Dirk Günnewig, State Secretary in the NRW Ministry of Finance and Chairman of the BLB NRW Administrative Board: "With the PhoQS Lab, we are also demonstrating how state construction supports world-class research - efficiently, sustainably and with a view to the future. As Chairman of the Administrative Board of BLB NRW, I am very pleased about this. Research of international importance, such as at the PhoQS Lab, requires targeted investment in infrastructure and construction expertise in its implementation. The handover of the keys shows that Bau- und Liegenschaftsbetrieb NRW provides outstanding space for cutting-edge research and demonstrates its capabilities."
Prof Dr Matthias Bauer, President of Paderborn University: "The PhoQS Lab is an important step for the research location of North Rhine-Westphalia and far beyond. It strengthens our excellent research, offers highly qualified jobs and creates an attractive environment for young scientists."
Prof Dr Christine Silberhorn, Spokesperson of the Institute of Photonic Quantum Systems: "The completion of the PhoQS Lab is an important milestone for us to be able to compete in the international cutting-edge research on photonic quantum technologies. The state-of-the-art infrastructure enables us to miniaturise large, complex optical experiments to chip size and develop a quantum technology that can also be used in applications in the future."
Gabriele Willems, Managing Director of BLB NRW: "We are delighted that we as Bau- und Liegenschaftsbetrieb NRW have successfully realised this ambitious project. With sustainable construction methods and state-of-the-art infrastructure, we have created a building that meets the highest requirements for cutting-edge research."
Wolfgang Feldmann, Head of the Bielefeld branch of BLB NRW: "We placed great emphasis on sustainability right from the project and early planning phase - long before BNB Silver certification became mandatory. This shows that BLB NRW acts with foresight and sees sustainable construction as an integral part of its projects.
Find out more about the Quantum research at Paderborn University.
This text was translated auomatically.
