Electrically and Optically Controlled Silicon-Based Quantum Device Created by Simon Fraser University (SFU) Physicists

Key Takeaways

• First electrically-injected single-photon source in silicon.
• Enables simultaneous optical and electrical control of T‑centre qubits.
• Silicon platform leverages existing semiconductor manufacturing scalability.
• Collaboration between SFU and Photonic Inc. accelerates commercialization.
• Advances bring quantum computing closer to practical, large‑scale processors.

Summary

Simon Fraser University physicists, together with Photonic Inc., have demonstrated a silicon‑based quantum device that can be controlled both optically and electrically. The new diode nanocavity structure produces the first electrically‑injected single‑photon source using silicon T‑centre qubits, as reported in Nature Photonics. This dual‑control capability addresses a key integration hurdle for scalable quantum processors and leverages the mature silicon manufacturing ecosystem. The breakthrough positions Canada’s quantum roadmap alongside global efforts by IBM, Google and Microsoft.

Pulse Analysis

Silicon has long been the workhorse of classical computing, but its transition to quantum information processing has been hampered by the difficulty of interfacing qubits with conventional electronics. Researchers have turned to colour‑centre defects—atomic‑scale imperfections that emit photons—to bridge this gap. The T‑centre, a silicon defect that couples an electron spin to an optical transition, offers a rare combination of long coherence times and telecom‑compatible wavelengths. By embedding these centres in nanophotonic cavities, scientists can manipulate quantum states with unprecedented precision, laying the groundwork for integrated quantum circuits.

The SFU team’s latest device adds a critical layer of functionality: electrical injection of single photons directly from the silicon lattice. Using a diode nanocavity, they trigger photon emission without external lasers, while still preserving optical readout capabilities. This hybrid control scheme reduces the number of external components required on a quantum chip, simplifying wiring and thermal management. Moreover, the approach is compatible with standard CMOS fabrication lines, meaning that large‑scale arrays of T‑centre qubits could be produced with the same yield and cost efficiencies that define today’s microprocessors.

From a market perspective, the breakthrough aligns with national quantum strategies and the aggressive roadmaps of industry giants such as IBM, Google and Microsoft, all of which are investing billions in silicon‑based platforms. Photonic Inc.’s partnership with SFU accelerates the translation of academic results into commercial prototypes, and its planned UK R&D hub signals a broader ecosystem emerging around silicon quantum hardware. As the technology matures, we can expect tighter integration with existing semiconductor supply chains, faster time‑to‑product, and new applications ranging from secure communications to drug discovery, reshaping the competitive landscape of quantum computing.