Optical clocks are amongst the most precise clocks ever built, with their frequency stability obtained by interrogating extremely narrow optical transitions in (typically) laser-cooled atoms. To date, such optical clocks making use of ultracold atoms are usually large and fragile research instruments, requiring several scientists to operate. QuRIOUS aims to train 15 young scientists in optical clock technologies with their research contributing to both fundamental science as well as robust and transportable optical clocks, with major potential for the emerging industry for quantum technologies and their downstream applications. By training these highly skilled doctoral candidates from diverse backgrounds, enhancing their innovation capacities and boosting their employability in the long-term, QuRIOUS also provides a strong contribution for Europe’s future leadership in the field for quantum technologies.

As part of the project, Menlo Systems will host and train an early-stage researcher, and the main activities will be to develop an optical clock based on hot rubidium vapor while further providing industrial secondments and entrepreneurial training for the young scientists in the network.