Justin Earley

Building upon the insights and the potential applications identified through the exploration of optically addressable, spin-based synthetic qubits, our laboratory at Arizona State University focuses on the interplay between electronic and molecular structures in defining qubit behavior. The primary aim is to dissect and understand the intrinsic properties of molecular qubits and their interaction with external analytes, focusing on critical questions around spin preservation, temperature-induced decay pathways, and the impact of optical excitation on spin sublevels.

Our group is pioneering in developing spectroscopic techniques that include optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) for heightened spin sensitivity and dual frequency comb spectroscopy for its unparalleled optical frequency resolution. These methodologies are complemented by explorations in time-resolved X-ray experiments at ASU's compact X-ray free-electron laser (CXFEL) facility, which enable insights into time-resolved structural changes and their correlation with molecular qubit efficiency. This comprehensive suite of techniques, along with traditional photophysical measurements, equips us to delve deeply into the physics that govern molecular qubits.

The outcomes of our research are poised to significantly influence the synthetic qubit community and the broader field of quantum sensing. By unlocking detailed understanding of molecular qubits, we aim to enable more informed synthesis of new qubit candidates and leverage their properties for quantum sensing applications. The potential impact of our work spans various sectors, including medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and materials science, where quantum sensors developed from our research could lead to groundbreaking advances in sensitivity and specificity. This work not only contributes to the fundamental science underpinning quantum computing and sensing but also paves the way for practical applications that harness the unique quantum mechanical properties of molecular systems for real-world benefits.