Dr. Trainor Secures Fellowship to Advance Quantum Memory Research

Dr. Trainor, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Otago, has been awarded a prestigious Royal Society Te Apārangi Mana Tūāpapa Future Leader Fellowship valued at $820,000 over four years. This funding will enable him to explore the innovative applications of crystals in quantum memory storage, a technology poised to revolutionize computing, security, and networking.

The research focuses on the development of novel materials and optimization of conditions necessary for practical use. Dr. Trainor and his team have demonstrated that specially lab-grown crystals embedded with rare earth elements such as erbium and neodymium—termed rare-earth-doped magnetically ordered crystals—exhibit significant potential for optical quantum memory. These advancements could pave the way for new data storage methods.

To facilitate this research, Dr. Trainor is utilizing a process that involves cooling the crystals to temperatures lower than those found in outer space, followed by the application of laser pulses to manipulate the elements. He noted, “I have been using such crystals to store single particles of light—photons—and recall them, which could be used as part of a future quantum network.”

Exploring Quantum Technologies

Dr. Trainor’s work represents a vital step toward the real-world application and commercialization of quantum technologies. The fellowship also supports other researchers at the University of Otago, including Dr. Alice-Roza Eruera, who will study ancient viruses and their evolutionary benefits for biotechnology and medicine. Dr. Rebecca French is investigating whether viruses carried by rats in New Zealand pose a threat to human health.

Additionally, Dr. Caitlin Owen aims to develop a more transparent and energy-efficient automated machine-learning system, while Dr. Wahineata Smith will explore the experiences of Māori and Tongan families raising children with dual heritages.

Significant Contributions to Science

In a related achievement, Prof. Neil Gemmell from the University of Otago is one of two New Zealand researchers awarded the Royal Society Mana Tūārangi Distinguished Researcher Fellowship, valued at $220,000. His research will delve into the role of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in fertility, aging, and health, employing advanced genetic tools. “This work will enhance our understanding of the mitochondrial genome’s sex-specific influence on fitness, behavior, health, and aging,” he stated.

The collective efforts of these researchers underscore the University of Otago’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and addressing pressing global challenges through innovative research.