Quantum approaches to biophysical systems, imaging and sensing
Abstract
Quantum mechanics provides the most accurate description of matter. Biological systems and biological interactions too are driven by the fundamental laws of quantum mechanics and often possess some unique properties, reflecting the quantum nature of such interactions. Quantum and related coherent effects are essential for atomic-scale imaging, are crucial for understanding bioelectricity at the level of single-molecule active transport through ion channels, and are key for electromagnetic stimulation of molecular structures. The proposed research aims to refine the fundamental understanding of these quantum-biological effects through the prism of coherent quantum optics and optical coherence, untangle the complex structures and dynamics of biological systems with unprecedented spatial resolution and sensitivity, elucidate ways for controlling biological systems (for example, cellular signaling pathways), and provide support for intellectual and technological advances for application in areas of biological control, enhancing human performance, and building human-machine interfaces. The specific aims of this research program, which will be immediately pursued, are: (1) fundamental understanding of coherence and noise in biological systems; (2) fundamental understanding of quantum thermodynamics; (3) exploring quantum coherence for deep subwavelength localization and atomic scale imaging; (4) Quantum and classical entanglement for improved sensing and imaging. The proposed research program builds upon the unique strength of the Institute for Quantum Science and Engineering at Texas A&M University and addresses key research areas of the Biophysics Program at the AFOSR. The research team has established a working partnership with the AFRL (Ft. Sam Houston, TX).
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 09, 2018
- Source ID
- FA95501810141
Entities
People
- Vladislav V Yakovlev
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Texas Engineering Experiment Station
- United States Air Force