Single-photon measurement workshop

Explore single and entangled-photon technologies and quantum applications in this hands-on three-day workshop at the University of York, hosted jointly with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL).

Single-photon technologies span a range of applications, from sensing applications operating in the single-photon regime to newer applications making use of the peculiar laws of quantum physics such as quantum key distribution (QKD), quantum random number generation (QRNG), and quantum networks.

The workshop will cover theoretical and practical aspects of measurements at the single-photon level through a combination of lectures, demonstrations and in-person experiments.

The workshop is coordinated by Dr Christopher Chunnilall (NPL) and Prof. Marco Lucamarini (University of York) and will be delivered at the University of York. Space is limited to 30 delegates.

What is the event about?

This three-day workshop will be delivered at the University of York (UK) and will cover:

• The basic properties of key components of single-photon technologies:
  • single- and entangled-photon sources
  • single-photon and optical coherent detectors
  • time-taggers and event counters
  • the metrics used to quantify properties of the above devices.
• How to measure these properties and analyse experimental data
• How to interpret a data/specification sheet for a single-photon device
• How to use the devices listed above

The attendees will be able to observe and use examples of the above devices.

An introduction to related technologies (e.g. optical fibres and quantum photonic integrated circuits - QPICs) and applications (for example, QKD and QRNG) will also be given.

Who should register?

This workshop is designed primarily for industry and is intended for those new to single-photon measurements, or who need a refresher. It will also benefit researchers working in government and academia. Some spaces may be available for graduate students.

Prerequisite knowledge

This workshop is intended for participants with a basic understanding of optics and quantum physics. Familiarity with the concept of a photon, optical components, and data analysis will help attendees fully engage with the technical content and hands-on activities. No prior experience with single-photon technologies is required.

If you're unsure whether the workshop is suitable for your background, feel free to contact us at training@npl.co.uk for guidance.

Registration

Attendance is limited to 30 delegates, and places will be allocated selectively to ensure a balanced and engaged group. To express your interest in attending, please email training@npl.co.uk by the 10 January 2026:

• Your name
• Your affiliation
• A brief statement (≤100 words) outlining your interest and motivation for attending

Successful applicants will be provided with a registration link.

Course fee

The course fee is £150 per person, which covers lunches, coffee breaks, and course materials. This rate is made possible thanks to generous funding from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Integrated Quantum Networks (IQN) Hub via EPSRC.

Please note that other meals and accommodation are not included.

Accommodation

The University of York can provide links to accommodation options. Travel and accommodation are not covered by the registration fee.

Agenda

An outline programme is available here: Single-photon measurement workshop programme

• Mornings will primarily consist of lectures delivered by experts from NPL, the University of York and invited speakers.
• A communal lunch will be available, providing opportunities to interact with other attendees and speakers.
• Afternoons will consist of practical demonstrations and hands-on experiments.