Speaker: Prof. Anil Prabhakar

Affiliation: Professor, IIT Madras

Talk Timings: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM, September 5, 2021

Abstract:

Quantum networks will coexist alongside classical fibre optic networks. However, the use of single photons or weak coherent pulses places stringent demands on the quality of the optical communication network. Our understanding of the optical physical layer infrastructure in metro areas and over long distances, shapes our choices of technology and protocol while designing quantum networks. The lecture will highlight the areas of commonality and the differences between classical and quantum communication networks, so as to help us better design and protect the quantum networks from environmental, or passive and malicious disturbances. We will also discuss the challenges in building India’s first quantum network testbed and the future plans for more such networks.

Bio:

Prof. Anil Prabhakar received his PhD in 1997 from Carnegie Mellon University, with a dissertation on the Nonlinear Spin-wave Optical Interactions. He has been with the faculty at the Dept. of Electrical Engineering, IIT-Madras since 2002, and is engaged across multiple laboratories that work on photonics. His current research interests in the areas of quantum technologies, have applications in metrology, quantum communication and quantum computing. As an academic entrepreneur, he has founded Unilumen Photonics, QNu Labs, Yali Mobility and Enability Foundation. He has over 50 research publications, has co-authored a book on Spin Waves, a few book chapters, and has 18 patents on a wide range of devices in areas of photonics, magnonics and assistive devices.