# Collaborative Research: ECCS-EPSRC: Ultrafast control of quantum light-matter interactions at the nanoscale with structured light and matter

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Massachusetts Lowell (MA) · $199,906

## Abstract

Efficient control of light and interaction of light with materials is essential for advances in imaging, sensing, communications, and quantum technologies. However, a major challenge is the scale mismatch between nanoscale quantum emitters and micrometer-scale spatial confinement of light, which limits the interaction efficiency. This scale mismatch is one of the fundamental roadblocks in the development of future communications and quantum devices. In this program, an international team comprising Duke University, the University of Massachusetts Lowell, and King’s College London aims to utilize nano-structured composite media to design a fundamentally new generation of devices capable of manipulating complex light beams simultaneously at small spatial (nanometer) and fast temporal (sub-nanosecond) scales. The new class of developed devices will be applied to manipulate important quantum transitions in molecules, which are difficult to access otherwise (dipole-forbidden transitions). The program aims to advance computational modeling, machine learning, advanced nanofabrication and engineering, and novel characterization methods, while preparing a new workforce that is ready to address complex interdisciplinary challenges in photonics and quantum engineering.

Technical Description:
The interdisciplinary team of researchers aims to design and realize a new transformative class of metamaterial-based devices capable of creating and manipulating optical angular momentum (OAM)-

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2525896
- **Awardee organization:** University of Massachusetts Lowell (MA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** LTNVSTJ3R6D5
- **PI:** Viktor A Podolskiy
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** International Partnerships, Light generation & detection, UNITED KINGDOM
- **Estimated total:** $199,906
- **Funds obligated:** $199,906
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2525896

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2525896, Collaborative Research: ECCS-EPSRC: Ultrafast control of quantum light-matter interactions at the nanoscale with structured light and matter. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2525896. Licensed CC0.

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