Redefining the Battlespace: Quantum, Atomic, and Photonic Technologies

This month, we're spotlighting how AFOSR-funded research is shaping the future battlespace and advancing our mission through strategic discovery and collaboration. Here’s what you’ll find: 

• Quantum breakthroughs in communication, 2D materials, and photonic sensing, highlighting how each supports future warfighter capabilities 

• Funding opportunities including the open Broad Agency Announcement and the INQS quantum program closing May 12 

• AFRL Alumni Community launch, a new space to stay connected, collaborate, and grow 

• Why basic research matters, and how AFOSR is advancing science with strategic purpose 

AFOSR is committed to advancing science with purpose. Join us as we bring the future faster through partnerships, innovation, and bold ideas rooted in mission impact.

Explore recent breakthroughs made possible through AFOSR funding—and see how it advances national security through foundational science. 

These AFOSR-funded advancements demonstrate the transformative potential of basic research in quantum, atomic, and photonic technologies for future air and space power.

Caltech’s Breakthrough in Scalable Quantum Communication 

Caltech scientists have achieved multiplexed entanglement between memory qubits, bringing us closer to scalable quantum networks. Their approach—based on ytterbium atoms and integrated photonics—enables parallel information transmission with unprecedented speed and fidelity. 

Why it matters to us:  AFOSR funded this research because it could lead to secure, high-speed quantum communication that is critical to future warfighting operations. Imagine distributed sensors across air and space domains, instantly syncing intelligence through quantum-secure networks. This work directly supports AFRL’s priority to deliver operationally relevant quantum capabilities—and positions our partners at the forefront of tech that could define next-generation systems. 

📍PI: Professor Andrei Faraon, Caltech Division of Engineering and Applied Science

📍PO: Dr. Grace Metcalfe, Quantum Information Sciences program

The full article is here: Multiplexing Entanglement in a Quantum Network  

University of Rochester’s Discovery of Artificial Atoms in 2D Materials 

Researchers at the University of Rochester have uncovered unique optical properties by manipulating 2D layers of molybdenum diselenide at precise twist angles, researchers created artificial atoms (excitons) with unique properties for quantum computing. These "moiré excitons" are stable, tunable, and ideal for processing quantum information at the nanoscale. 

Why it matters to us:  This foundational discovery was supported by AFOSR because materials science underpins quantum hardware performance. Tomorrow’s quantum computers—used for simulating new materials, optimizing logistics, or solving military-relevant problems—will rely on advances like these. This research helps build the technological backbone of future quantum systems that can accelerate mission planning and defense innovation. 

📍PI: Professor Anthony Vamikas, Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences

📍PO: Dr. Wooddy Miller, Ph.D., Optoelectronics and Photonics program

📍PO: Dr. Michael Yakes, Physics of Sensing program

The full article is here: Twisting atomically thin materials could advance quantum computers

Harvard’s Innovation in Photonic Crystal Sensors 

A collaborative effort led by Harvard University has resulted in the development of a novel MEMS-controlled photonic crystal that can twist in real-time to dynamically measure properties like light wavelength and polarization. This compact sensor enables advanced hyperspectral and hyperpolarimetric imaging on chip-sized platforms. 

Why it matters to us:  AFOSR invested in this research to enable miniaturized, multi-functional optical systems—vital for applications in autonomous sensing, space situational awareness, and directed energy. In future conflict environments, lightweight and adaptive optical devices can give warfighters the edge through enhanced detection, targeting, and survivability. It’s a leap toward integrating precision photonics into deployable platforms.

📍PI: Professor Mark Cappelli, Stanford University

📍PO: Dr. Justin Koo, Propulsion and Power program

The full article is here: Twisted crystals open door to smaller, more powerful optical devices

🎓 Connect with the Future of Defense Research

Introducing the AFRL Alumni Network: Your Partners in Innovation 

Calling all AFRL alumni and current workforce! Join our LinkedIn group to connect with fellow innovators, explore opportunities, and stay updated on AFRL's groundbreaking advancements.

The group is your space to:

✅ Stay informed on AFRL’s cutting-edge advancements and breakthroughs

✅ Reconnect with former colleagues, mentors, and like-minded innovators

✅ Explore opportunities to amplify your impact with AFRL

✅ Celebrate achievements and milestones within our incredible alumni family

Whether you're forging new paths or considering returning, you're a vital part of the AFRL story. And now, we're excited to connect you with fellow innovators through the new AFRL Alumni Network community.

Join us: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8330382/

Let's push the boundaries of what's possible, together!

AFOSR offers a variety of funding opportunities tailored to advance science and technology in support of the U.S. Air Force and Space Force.

📌 Research Interests of the Air Force Office of Scientific Research

Status: Open Until Closed

🔗 https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/345653

Questions? Contact: afosr.baa@us.af.mil

📌 2025 Innovations in Qubit Science for Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computing (INQS) Program Closes: May 12, 2025

Status: Closing Date May 12, 2025

🔗 https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/358422

AFOSR welcomes proposals from academia, industry, and international partners. Together, we turn basic science into operational advantage.

The FUTURE begins with Basic Research. 

Whether you're an experienced principal investigator or rising star in research, AFOSR provides funding to turn bold ideas into game-changing discoveries to bring the future faster. Explore opportunities in areas such as materials science, quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and more, to support AFRL's preeminence in research. 

Follow Air Force Office of Scientific Research for more updates on basic research, partnerships, and opportunities. Stay connected, stay innovative, and stay engaged with AFOSR. Let's win together!