quantum-sensing
Quantum Sensing Laboratory
We are developing Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) diamond quantum sensors for nanoscale magnetometry and micro-NMR in ambient conditions. Our work bridges the gap between fundamental quantum mechanics and applied nanotechnology.
Research Themes
Pulsed ODMR protocols and low-noise readout for widefield and micro-scale sensing.
Nanopillars/gratings to improve collection efficiency and NV–sample coupling.
Integrated chips for nanoscale NMR detection and controlled sample handling.
The Quantum Sensor
The core of our research is the Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) center in diamond. This atomic defect acts as a single "spin" system—essentially a tiny compass needle—that can be manipulated using microwave pulses and read out using laser light. Because the NV center is protected by the diamond lattice, it retains its quantum properties even at room temperature.
This allows us to use it as a high-sensitivity magnetometer.
- Room Temperature: Operates in ambient conditions (no cryogenics required).
- Optical Readout: We use green lasers to initialize and red fluorescence to read the state.
- Atomic Resolution: The sensor itself is the size of a single atom.
Nanostructuring & Fabrication
To get the sensor close enough to the sample (nanometers away), we cannot use standard bulk diamonds. We need to sculpt the diamond into functional nanostructures—such as nanopillars or gratings—that guide light efficiently and allow for precise positioning.
We work closely with the group of Prof. Alexander Kromka at the Institute of Physics (FZU).
- CVD Growth: Growing high-purity single crystal diamond.
- Nanofabrication: Etching diamond into photonic structures.
- Surface Termination: Controlling surface chemistry to protect quantum spins.
The Experiment: Micro-NMR
Our goal is to build a compact, integrated platform for Micro-NMR. Conventional NMR requires massive superconducting magnets. By using NV centers, we are developing a system that can detect the chemical composition of thin films or even single molecules using permanent magnets on a table-top.
Open positions / Thesis topics
We are currently looking for students for the following experimental projects. Work can be adapted for student projects, MSc, or PhD theses depending on scope.
- Design and construction of an integrated NV-NMR spectrometer.
- Optimization of microwave antenna designs for efficient spin control.
- Investigation of surface termination effects on diamond spin coherence (T2).
- Nanostructuring of single-crystal diamonds for enhanced photon collection.
- Development of Python-based automation for quantum sensing experiments.
How to apply
If you are interested in student projects, MSc, or PhD topics, send a short email to tomas.sikorsky@matfyz.cuni.cz with a brief description of what you’d like to work on.
