# CAREER: Integrated-photonics Spatial Light Modulators: Enabling Next Generation Quantum Control Hardware

> **NSF 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Harvard University (MA) · $550,000

## Abstract

Nontechnical description: 
Manipulating electromagnetic waves in space and time is a foundational capability of modern science and engineering. At visible and near-infrared wavelengths, electromagnetic fields interact strongly with atoms and molecules, enabling scalable control in quantum hardware as well as advanced techniques in molecular and neural imaging. This CAREER proposal aims to develop new integrated-photonic hardware—specifically, large-scale, high-speed spatial light modulators—that will enable next generation quantum control hardware and advanced imaging platforms.
Beyond quantum and imaging applications, the photonic subsystems developed in this effort will contribute to emerging photonic interconnects that support large-scale machine learning across geographically distributed data centers—a growing national priority as AI models and datasets increase in scale. Through partnerships with industry, the PI will accelerate translation of these photonics technologies into practical systems. Students in the project will receive interdisciplinary training at the intersection of photonics, quantum engineering, and computational design, and the team will engage in mentoring and outreach activities for K–12 students in Cambridge and Boston public schools.


Technical description:
This research program aims to redefine spatial light modulator architectures through the direct integration and co-design of a solid-state gain laser array, high-speed electro-optic modula

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2441600
- **Awardee organization:** Harvard University (MA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** LN53LCFJFL45
- **PI:** Kiyoul Yang
- **Primary program:** 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Light generation & detection, Photonic integration, CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev, QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE
- **Estimated total:** $550,000
- **Funds obligated:** $550,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 06/15/2026 → 05/31/2031

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2441600

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2441600, CAREER: Integrated-photonics Spatial Light Modulators: Enabling Next Generation Quantum Control Hardware. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2441600. Licensed CC0.

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