Why it matters
The ability to detect extremely small changes is important across science and technology. Ultra-precise quantum sensors could sharpen navigation in environments where GPS doesn’t work (such as submarines, underground or spaceflight); enhance biological and medical imaging; monitor materials and gravitational systems; or probe fundamental physics.
While still at the laboratory stage, the experiment demonstrates a new framework for future sensing technologies targeted towards measuring tiny signals. Rather than replacing existing approaches, it adds a complementary tool to the quantum-sensing toolbox.
“Just as atomic clocks transformed navigation and telecommunications, quantum-enhanced sensors with extreme sensitivity could enable whole new industries,” said Dr Valahu.
A collaborative effort
This project united experimentalists at the University of Sydney with theorists at RMIT, the University of Melbourne, Macquarie University and the University of Bristol in Britain. It shows how collaboration across institutions and borders can accelerate progress and strengthen Australia’s quantum research community.
“This work highlights the power of collaboration and the international connections that drive discovery,” Dr Tan said.
Research
Valahu, C. et al ‘Quantum-enhanced multi-parameter sensing in a single mode’ (Science Advances 2025) DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adw9757
Declaration
The researchers declare no competing interests. Funding was received from the Australian Research Council, the US Office of Naval Research Global, the US Army Research Office Laboratory for Physical Sciences, the US Air Force Office of Scientific Research, Lockheed Martin, the European Commission, Sydney Quantum Academy, H. and A. Harley.
Main image caption: Lead author Dr Christophe Valahu in front of the ion trap in the Quantum Control Laboratory used in this experiment. Photo: Fiona Wolf/University of Sydney