The project, part of the Valencian Community's Quantum Communication Plan, is a collaborative effort between the University of Valencia, the Polytechnic University of Valencia, the University of Alicante, and CEU Cardenal Herrera University. Together, these institutions are driving a new wave of innovation to position the Valencian Community as a leader in quantum technologies applied to fields such as telecommunications, cybersecurity, and healthcare.
Q-FACE's goal is to develop an integrated device that acts as a "bridge" between quantum computers and traditional optical networks, allowing both systems to "speak the same language".
In this way, future quantum processors could exchange information through existing fiber optic networks, representing a major step towards secure and accessible quantum communications. “We want future quantum computers to be able to connect with the networks we use today ,” explained Alejandro Martínez, professor and head of the project.
“Our work seeks to make that connection possible, translating quantum signals into the language of light, which is what dominates our long-distance telecommunications .” The key lies in developing an integrated interface that allows for the efficient and stable transformation of microwave quantum signals into optical signals, and vice versa, using a mechanical oscillator as an intermediary. Although the process is complex, the UPV team summarizes it with a simple idea: creating an efficient translator between the quantum world and fiber optic networks. “What’s fascinating about this project is that it combines cutting-edge research with a very practical objective ,” Martínez emphasized. “We are laying the groundwork so that, in the not-too-distant future, quantum computers can communicate with each other securely through the same networks we use today .
Beyond its technological potential, Q-FACE represents a model of multidisciplinary collaboration, involving specialists in physics, engineering, and photonics. They all work toward a common goal: bringing quantum technology closer to everyday life. A university looking to the future through research. This project is one of eleven that make up the Quantum Communication Plan, led by four prestigious universities: the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV), the University of Valencia (UV), the University of Alicante (UA), and the CEU Cardenal Herrera University (CEU-UCH).
Taken together, these initiatives encompass a wide range of research and development lines with the aim of promoting quantum technology and its applications in strategic areas such as telecommunications and cybersecurity, thus consolidating the Valencian Community as a leader in technological innovation at the national and international levels. With over half a century of history, the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV) is a leading public institution in research, teaching, and knowledge transfer. With nearly 28,000 students, 2,500 faculty and researchers, and 1,500 administrative and support staff, the UPV maintains a constant commitment to innovation and technological development.
“Quantum science isn’t built solely on formulas, but also on collaboration and a vision for the future,” concluded the project leader. “At the UPV, we want to contribute our knowledge so that quantum advances truly reach society .” Regarding the Valencian Quantum Communication Plan: The Complementary Quantum Communication Plan is part of the EU Resilience Plan and has a total budget of 76 million euros. This plan aims to promote research and development in the field of quantum communications, a key technology for the future of telecommunications.
The Valencian Community is one of the regions participating in this project since 2022, along with Castile and León, Catalonia, the Basque Country, Galicia, and the Community of Madrid, as well as the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC). In the case of the Valencian Community, the funding for this plan comes mostly from the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, which contributes 65% of the funds, equivalent to €1,169,671.10, while the remaining 35%, approximately €629,822.90, is funded by the Regional Ministry of Education, Culture, Universities, and Employment.
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