Focus Research Areas of the Research Center in Quantum Technology (RCQT), Chiang Mai University

The Research Center in Quantum Technology (RCQT) at Chiang Mai University is a university-wide network that unites CMU’s leading scientific groups under a shared mission to accelerate Thailand’s progress in quantum science and technology. RCQT integrates the strengths of the Quantum Research Unit at the Central Science Laboratory, the Center of Excellence in Quantum Technology (CEQT) at the Faculty of Engineering, and multiple collaborating teams across the sciences. Together, these groups form a powerful ecosystem spanning atomic physics, photonics, precision measurement, quantum information, computational science, and national-security-oriented quantum innovation. RCQT’s research portfolio reflects both deep academic ambition and practical impact, positioning CMU as a key player in Asia’s emerging quantum landscape.

Cold-Atom Science and Quantum Control

RCQT conducts frontier research on the manipulation of matter at ultracold temperatures, developing advanced tools such as magneto-optical traps (MOTs), optical lattices, ring-shaped traps, and Rydberg-atom arrays. These efforts produce atomic ensembles cooled to the micro- and nano-Kelvin regime, enabling exquisite control over internal and external degrees of freedom. Research explores coherent atom–light interactions, quantum state engineering, long-range Rydberg coupling, and atom-interferometric protocols. This foundation supports quantum technologies including neutral-atom quantum processors, atomic clocks, and precision interferometers, while also advancing fundamental physics in quantum dynamics and many-body systems.

Quantum Sensors and Ultra-Precise Measurement

One of RCQT’s strongest pillars is its work on quantum-enhanced sensing, where the center pushes measurement precision beyond classical limits. This includes the development of compact cold-atom gravimeters, quantum magnetometers, rotation sensors, and hybrid inertial measurement units. These devices combine atom interferometry, laser stabilization, optical frequency referencing, and custom control electronics to achieve extremely high sensitivity. Target applications span underground water detection, flood prediction, mineral surveying, earth-science monitoring, infrastructure assessment, space exploration, and navigation in GPS-denied environments. RCQT aims to build fully deployable, rugged, field-ready quantum instruments suited for both civilian and strategic use.

Quantum Information and Rydberg-Atom Computing

RCQT is advancing Thailand’s capabilities in neutral-atom quantum simulation and computation. Research groups develop holographic optical tweezer arrays using spatial light modulators to trap and manipulate dozens of single atoms with high precision. By exploiting strong, controllable Rydberg interactions, these systems enable fast entangling gates, programmable spin models, quantum optimization algorithms, and exotic quantum matter simulations. RCQT’s long-term vision is to build a scalable platform where neutral atoms serve as robust qubits for quantum computing, quantum networking, and hybrid AI-quantum simulation frameworks—particularly for complex systems such as agent-based models and high-dimensional physics simulations.

Photonics, Laser Technology, and Frequency Metrology

High-performance photonics is essential to all quantum systems, and RCQT hosts extensive research in this domain. The center develops ultra-stable laser systems, narrow-linewidth spectroscopy tools, phase-locked and frequency-locked architectures, precision modulators, and custom electronics for advanced quantum experiments. Work includes frequency stabilization using PDH locking, high-power diode-laser engineering, compact laser amplifiers, spatial light modulation, optical frequency comb integration, and real-time optical diagnostics. These photonics technologies support cold-atom experiments, sensing platforms, biomedical optics, environmental detection, and industrial metrology, expanding the impact of RCQT’s expertise beyond academia.

Quantum Technology for Military, Defense, and Security

RCQT is pioneering research that applies quantum physics directly to Thailand’s national defense and strategic technology roadmap. The center develops quantum technologies with direct relevance to military sensing, navigation, secure communication, and situational awareness, including:

• Quantum Navigation Systems: Compact atom-interferometric gravimeters and gyroscopes for precision navigation in GPS-denied, electronically contested, or underwater environments.
• Quantum-Enhanced Surveillance: Ultra-sensitive detection of underground tunnels, concealed structures, and geophysical anomalies using cold-atom gravimetry and quantum magnetometry.
• Quantum Timing and Synchronization: High-stability optical frequency references and atomic standards for secure communication networks and defense-grade timing systems.
• Quantum Signal Protection: Research toward quantum-secure communication protocols and quantum-noise-resilient sensing.
• Dual-Use Quantum Platforms: Modular photonics and atomic technologies designed to operate in rugged, mobile, and field-deployable configurations.

This strategic research theme positions RCQT as a critical contributor to Thailand’s future quantum-ready defense capabilities, aligned with global trends in military quantum technology.

Applied Quantum Technology, Modeling, and Interdisciplinary Integration

RCQT blends quantum science with engineering, computation, and data-driven innovation. Research teams incorporate numerical simulation, AI-based optimization, and real-time feedback control to enhance quantum device performance. Applications include quantum-inspired algorithms, optimization frameworks, complex system simulations, and integrated networks that merge IoT sensing with quantum-grade instrumentation. Materials science, cryogenics, electronics, and mechanical design co-develop with quantum platforms, creating a truly interdisciplinary environment where quantum principles meet real-world engineering constraints.

Positioning RCQT for the Quantum Future

RCQT’s strength lies in its integrated network structure—linking diverse laboratories under a common strategic vision. The center’s research spans fundamental physics, device engineering, and mission-driven innovation, with a strong focus on technologies that are compact, robust, and deployable. By uniting academic excellence with societal and national-security relevance, RCQT positions Chiang Mai University as a rising leader in Asia’s quantum technology landscape. Through collaboration, innovation, and relentless scientific ambition, RCQT is building a quantum future that will transform navigation, sensing, computation, environmental monitoring, and defense capability for Thailand and beyond.