To date, research on quantum phenomena that underpin many of the advantages of modern quantum applications has predominantly focused on entanglement. This spatial quantum correlation enables, for example, secure quantum key distribution, advantages in quantum computing, and the superiority of quantum metrology schemes.  

However, current and near-term quantum information processing devices are not only able to share quantum systems, but also manipulate and transmit them, allowing for the exploitation of not only quantum correlations in space but also in time. Many modern quantum algorithms already leverage such spatio-temporal correlations as a resource for improved performance, e.g., in distributed quantum computation, where users can receive correlated quantum states, perform operations on them, and forward them to the next user. 

While the creation, verification and exploitation of spatial entanglement is well established, the capabilities of spatio-temporal entanglement and practical protocols that use it as a resource have only recently seen increased attention [1]. First works have investigated its underlying structure [2], demonstrated its advantage for practical tasks [3] and developed techniques for its experimental verification in small configurations [4].  

Building on these initial results, this project will focus on the development of a fully-fledged toolbox to efficiently verify quantum correlations in (space and) time, the design of protocols to exploit them and demonstrate their quantum advantage, as well as the investigation of their resourcefulness, robustness to noise, efficient compression, and their limitation under experimental restrictions.  

Progress in this direction will help unlock the full potential of current and future quantum technologies and open up a new domain for further quantum advantages. Throughout the project, the candidate will obtain hands-on experience in theoretical quantum information theory, including numerical simulation and optimisation, and learn how to model complex quantum systems in space and time.