# High-Temperature Single-Photon Detectors using Iron-Chalcogenide Superconductors

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Syracuse University (NY) · $433,921

## Abstract

Non-Technical Abstract:
Detecting single photons - the quanta of light- is the cornerstone of cutting-edge quantum technologies such as optical quantum computing, communication, and ultra-sensitive imaging. Superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) have emerged as the leading single photon detection technology owing to their near-unity quantum efficiency, higher count rates, extremely low dark counts, and high timing resolution. However, most state-of-the-art SNSPD detectors operate at very low temperatures (< 4 K), necessitating extensive cryo-cooling. Here, we propose utilizing high-temperature iron-based superconductors such as Fe(Te, Se), which is known to exhibit superconductivity up to 65 K at the monolayer limit, to advance single photon detection technology. This project aims to develop SNSPDs that operate at temperatures above liquid helium, significantly reducing the footprint and enhancing accessibility and scalability. The project's success could advance the quantum technology revolution due to its higher working temperature regime, which may have critical applications in biomedical research, deep space imaging, and optical-quantum computing. Developing next-generation high-temperature SNSPDs will advance quantum technologies (National Quantum Initiative Act 2018) and integrated quantum photonics (CHIPS and Science Act, 2022). This interdisciplinary project will enhance our science education initiatives and workforce development for the quantum a

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2516447
- **Awardee organization:** Syracuse University (NY)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** C4BXLBC11LC6
- **PI:** Pankaj K Jha
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** ELECT, PHOTONICS, & DEVICE TEC, QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE
- **Estimated total:** $433,921
- **Funds obligated:** $433,921
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2516447

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2516447, High-Temperature Single-Photon Detectors using Iron-Chalcogenide Superconductors. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2516447. Licensed CC0.

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