86066-PE-grant-title-midwave infrared single photon detection via quantum non-demolition

The Department of the Army Materiel Command Research Development and Engineering Command awarded $1,019,375.18 to Michigan Technological University on September 30, 2025, under the Basic Scientific Research program (CFDA 12.431) for midwave infrared single-photon detection via quantum non-demolition technology, with performance through May 31, 2026, at Houghton, Michigan.

The research effort encompasses theoretical and experimental studies on quantum nondemolitional detection of single- and few-photon states in the mid-infrared spectrum, development of perfect absorbers for thermopiles, and integration of advanced optical detection technologies. Work includes preparation and characterization of cadmium oxide thin films for cross-phase modulation hosts, optical field concentration stacks for advanced photovoltaic detectors, and plasmonic thermopile detectors. The program incorporates ellipsometric and Hall measurements, cryogenic transport characterization, collaborative development of room-temperature infrared detector elements integrating two-dimensional transition metal di-chalcogenide semiconductors with cadmium oxide, and thermopile structure design optimized for detectivity and signal-to-noise performance.

Sub-recipients deliver specialized components of the research. Saint Louis University performs theoretical and experimental studies on quantum nondemolitional detection and perfect absorber development, overseeing graduate research assistants and postdoctoral scholars (sub-award W911NF2510283-25-0986-Z2, awarded January 12, 2026). Pennsylvania State University prepares cadmium oxide thin films, conducts crystal structure and transport characterization, collaboratively develops detector elements and thermopile structures, and coordinates with computational and theory teams (sub-award W911NF2510283-25-0986-Z1, awarded December 1, 2025). Vanderbilt University performs optical spectroscopy of epsilon near-zero films and devices and characterizes detectivity and responsivity of infrared detectors (sub-award W911NF2510283-25-0986-Z3, awarded December 10, 2025).