Dr. Benjamin Brecht

Since 06/2018: Group leader "Quantum Networks" at Paderborn University

The "Quantum Networks" group is part of the Silberhorn group. We are interested in the generation, manipulation, and utilization of quantum light in different areas of application. Examples include quantum simulations based on time-multiplexed quantum walks, ultra-precise time-frequency metrology, and high-dimensional time-frequency quantum communications. 

03/2021 - 11/2023: Manager of the Institute for Photonic Quantum Systems (PhoQS)

The interdisciplinary Institute for Photonic Quantum Systems (PhoQS) aims to combine expertise from the areas of experimental and theoretical physics, computer science, electrical engineering, and mathematics to realise photonic quantum technologies for applications in the emerging fields of quantum communications, quantum metrology and sensing, quantum simulations, and quantum computing. 

05/2015 - 05/2018: Postdoc at the University of Oxford, UK

Work on quantum memories in warm caesium vapour in the group of Prof Ian A. Walmsley. During my time we invented, patented and deployed a novel memory protocol - ORCA - for the storage and retrieval of heralded single photons. 

04/2014 - 04/2015: Postdoc at Paderborn University

Work on the time-frequency manipulation of quantum light

08/2009 - 03/2014: Doctoral thesis at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light and the Paderborn University

Thesis title: Engineering ultrafast quantum frequency conversion

07/2008 - 07/2009: Physics diploma at the FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg

Title of the diploma thesis: Generation of decorrelated photon pairs in photonic crystal fibres

Since 01/2024: Co-Investigator in the EC project EPIQUE

EPIQUE (European Photonic Quantum Computer) develops three photonic quantum computing prototypes that are based on different paradigms. Our role is the development of a time-multiplexed Gaussian boson sampling machine. I am leading and coordinating the research at the Paderborn site. 

Since 10/2022: Co-Investigator in the EC project MIRAQLS

The MIRAQLS (Mid-infrared Quantum Technologies for Sensing) project aims to develop novel quantum metrology and spectroscopy techniques at mid-infrared wavelengths. Our focus lies on nonlinear interferometry and measurements with undetected photons. I am leading and coordinating the research at the Paderborn site.

Since 10/2018: Deputy Senate Speaker of Paderborn University

07/2022 - 06/2025: Co-Investigator of the QuantERA Project E2TPA

The E2TPA (Exploiting Entangled Two-Photon Absorption) project aims to understand and harness the physics behind the interaction of entangled quantum light and molecules. Within the project, we are developing customised quantum light sources for entangled two-photon absorption together with our national and international partners. I am leading and coordinating the research at the Paderborn site.

10/2020 - 08/2024: Co-Investigator of the EU HORIZON2020 FET-OPEN Project STORMYTUNE

STORMYTUNE (Spectral-temporal metrology with tailored quantum measurements) explores novel ways to improve the performance of spectroscopy techniques by using quantum measurements. As co-coordinator of the project, I am the scientific contact point for the EU. Further, I am responsible for the day to day coordination of the consortium and am leading the research efforts in Paderborn.

10/2020 - 02/2024: Co-Investigator of the QuantERA Project ApresSF

In ApresSF (Application-ready superresolution in space and frequency), we aim to improve superresolving measurements and to bring them closer to industrial application. I am leading the research efforts in Paderborn, which focus on the continuous improvement of time-frequency measurements.

10/2015 - 09/2018: Co-Investigator of the EU FP7 FET-OPEN Project QCUMbER

In QCUMbER (Quantum-controlled ultrafast multimode entanglement and measurement), we investigated the utilisation of the spectral-temporal structure of quantum light. Part of my contribution to the project was the day to day coordination during my time in Oxford.