Start of funding 01.01.2026

Hybrid Quantum Interfaces: Towards Quantum Transduction in YIG-on-Insulator and Magnon-Mediated Diamond Spin-Spin Entanglement in Diamond-on-YIG Devices

Prof. Dr. Eva Weig
Technische Universität München
Chair of nano and Quantum Sensors, School of Computer,Information and Technology

Prof. Dr. Ania Bleszynski Jayich
University of California, Santa Barbara
Department of Physics



This project explores yttrium iron garnet (YIG), a low-loss magnetic material, as a platform for future quantum technologies. Magneto-mechanical frequency transduction facilitates the conversion of microwave signals into light for long-distance quantum networks. Magnon-mediated spin coupling promises to couple distant nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center spin qubits in diamond for distributed quantum sensing. A central challenge is the fabrication of high-quality, freely suspended YIG nanostructures on suitable substrates. The collaboration will therefore adapt Smart-Cut methods to create thin-film YIG-on-insulator and diamond-on-YIG devices. The TUM team contributes expertise in nanoscale patterning and ion-slicing of YIG, while the UCSB group provides world-leading know-how in Smart-Cut diamond technology. Together, they will develop crystalline YIG thin films for the realization of advanced magneto-opto- and spin-mechanical nanostructures. These hybrid devices will underpin future joint research in cavity optomechanics and quantum networking.