Step into the intriguing realm of quantum technology with Dr. Serrano as he sheds light on the phenomenal properties of rare-earth ions (REIs). These solid-state systems hold great promise in building light–matter interfaces at the quantum level, thanks to their capacity for narrow optical and spin homogeneous linewidths, resulting in long-lived quantum states.

In our conversation, Dr. Serrano explores the potential applications of REIs in photonic quantum technologies such as memories for light, optical–microwave transduction, and computing. Despite the exciting possibilities, progress has been hampered by the lack of materials with environments quiet enough to fully exploit the properties of REIs.

Enter europium molecular crystals. These molecular systems, as Dr. Serrano discusses, exhibit linewidths orders of magnitude narrower than other molecular systems, making them an efficient solution for optical spin initialization, coherent storage of light, and optical control of ion–ion interactions.

Tune in to discover how these findings set the stage for rare-earth molecular crystals to become a new platform for photonic quantum technologies, bridging the gap between highly coherent emitters and the unmatched versatility of molecular materials.

Keywords: Dr. Serrano, Rare-Earth Ions, Quantum Technology, Photonic Quantum Technologies, Europium Molecular Crystals, Coherent Emitters, Molecular Materials.

Serrano, D., Kuppusamy, S.K., Heinrich, B. et al. Ultra-narrow optical linewidths in rare-earth molecular crystals. Nature 603, 241–246 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-021-04316-2