Brock University

Published purpose

The Project aims to develop a new generation of single-photon detectors (SPDs) that combine high photogeneration gain, ultrafast response, low dark noise, and telecom-band sensitivity with the practical advantages of low cost, fiber compatibility, and scalable manufacturing. The technology centers on environmentally benign SnTe quantum dots (QDs), which have novel multiple-exciton generation (MEG) and avalanche multiplication effect to enable superior infrared photon harvesting. Building on the Project team’s preliminary achievements—including SnTe/ZnTe core–shell QD synthesis, device-level MEG demonstration, and a unique ultrafast photocurrent spectroscopy platform—the Project optimizes QD chemistry, engineer device architectures, and elucidate in-situ ultrafast carrier dynamics to maximize SPD performance. The resulting chip-integrated detectors have the potential to surpass conventional semiconductor and superconducting SPDs, offering high gain, reduced noise, and telecom compatibility. The Project advances Canada’s quantum technology ecosystem, strengthens collaborations across academia, industry, and government, and supports secure quantum communication infrastructure of national importance.