The PHOENICIS project (PHOton Entangled states in Number Correlations for Imaging and Sensing), proposed by INRiM within the Spoke 7 “Complete Quantum System” cascade call, aimed to develop quantum-enhanced optical imaging systems based on the use of photon-number entangled states for detecting signals under low-intensity conditions.

In particular, the project focused on two main research lines:

• The development of a sub-shot-noise microscope for biological measurements;
• The implementation of quantum super-resolution microscopy techniques based on higher-order correlation functions and non-Poissonian emitters, integrated with structured illumination microscopy (SIM).

Both objectives were fully achieved.

On the one hand, a phase-imaging microscope — particularly suited for biological applications — was realized, demonstrating the absence of a trade-off between resolution and noise suppression, unlike what typically occurs in absorption imaging. This result opens the way to broader use of the technique.

On the other hand, a clear improvement in resolution was demonstrated by combining non-Poissonian emitters (quantum dots) with structured light. These findings also point to strong potential for practical applications.

Key publications:

[1] A. Paniate et al., High-resolution quantum-enhanced phase imaging of cells, Optica 13 (2026) 375
[2] F. Picariello et al., Quantum super-resolution microscopy by photon statistics and structured light, Optica 12(4), 490 (2025)

The Quantumix (Ultracold atom-ion mixtures for quantum technologies) project, led by INRiM, has been successfully completed.

During the project, significant results were achieved that extended beyond the project's immediate objectives. New techniques were developed for cooling atoms confined in optical lattices and for accurately measuring their temperature, reaching the microkelvin range. In addition, two-dimensional crystals of trapped ions were investigated and controlled, providing new insights into their structural phase transitions and dynamical properties. These activities led to the preparation of two scientific publications focusing on atomic thermometry and the control of ion crystals.

The project also enabled the design and characterization of a high finesse optical cavity and the demonstration of ion–cavity coupling. The technologies and methodologies developed within Quantumix lay the groundwork for future experiments involving ultracold mixtures of Lithium atoms and Barium ions, as well as for new applications in quantum simulation, quantum metrology, and quantum information science.

The STAR project, led by INRiM, has been successfully completed, achieving significant technological milestones that strengthen the objectives of Spoke 6 of NQSTI (National Quantum Science and Technology Institute) in quantum metrology and quantum technologies.

Among the main results, the project demonstrated the development of superconducting Transition-Edge Sensor (TES) single-photon detectors with excellent photon-number-resolving (PNR) capability, successfully discriminating up to 13 photons at a wavelength of 690 nm through the optimization of Ti/Au bilayers.

The system detection efficiency (SDE) reached 85%, a value achieved through the use of specific anti-reflection coatings. In addition, the implementation of “gold banks” structures enabled count rates exceeding 1 MHz, ensuring state-of-the-art response times for this type of detector.

A key outcome of the project was the realization of a linear array of 8 TES devices (with a 250 μm pitch), optimized for integration with standard optical fiber arrays. This advancement is supported by the validation of the new POLARIS facility (Precise Optical Line-up And Reference Imaging System), which enables sub-micrometric alignment precision between fibers and sensors.

These results not only enhance the photonic platform of Spoke 6, but also open new avenues for quantum sensing and single-photon metrology.

INRiM is the proponent of the project QCS APP LAB (Quantum Communication and Sensing Applications Laboratory), approved within the NQSTI program – Spoke 8 Technology Transfer, funded through the PNRR and coordinated by Dr. Davide Calonico, Scientific Director of INRiM. 

The aim of the project is to create a Joint Lab for quantum communication and quantum sensing applications, adopting a public-private model. This joint laboratory brings together scientific, technological and entrepreneurial expertise capable of guiding the evolution from fundamental research carried out in the laboratory to practical applications, moving from technology to the market.

The main objectives include:

• Public-private joint laboratory: establishing a collaborative platform that brings together research and industry, creating a virtuous model of shared innovation.
• Quantum communication technologies: developing solutions for secure networks based on quantum principles, with direct impacts on data protection and critical infrastructures.
• Quantum sensing for advanced applications: realizing high-precision quantum sensors with applications in metrology, medicine, and security.
• National and European ecosystem: strengthening Italy’s role in the development of quantum technologies, in synergy with NQSTI strategic projects and in an international cooperation context.

These approaches aim to make QCS APP LAB an attractive hub of interests, infrastructure, and skills, capable of sustaining its activities from the second year of operation and generating value for the National System, while contributing to the competitive positioning of Italy and Europe in the field of quantum technologies.