Dr. Urbasi Sinha

Professor Urbasi Sinha

PhD, Canada Excellence Research Chair
Pronouns: She/her

Positions

Canada Excellence Research Chair iPhotonic Quantum Science and Technologies

Faculty of Science, Department of Physics and Astronomy

Contact information

Location

Office: ScienceB603

For media enquiries, contact

For media related inquiries, please contact Owen Stockden, Director of Marketing and Communications, at owen.stockden@ucalgary.ca

 

I'm looking for...

Research partners

Motivated PhD and Masters students as well as post doctoral fellows and research associates to join my group. Drop me an email if you are interested!

Background

Educational Background

PhD Physics and Materials Science, University of Cambridge, UK., 2006

MSci Natural Sciences Tripos, University of Cambridge, UK., 2002

Research

Areas of Research

Photonic quantum science and technologies: precision experimental tests of quantum mechanics and quantum optics, quantum communications, quantum computing, quantum enhanced metrology, higher dimensional quantum information processing

My labs specialise in experiments on quantum information processing including quantum computing, secure quantum communications (both quantum key distribution as well as entanglement distribution based quantum repeater approaches) quantum imaging and sensing, as well as quantum enhanced metrology primarily using single and entangled photons. One of my core interests and expertise is in the domain of foundations of quantum mechanics and designing and executing table top experiments to test fundamental principles of quantum mechanics as well as quantum gravity approaches. I strongly believe in a strong synergy between applications based research and more foundational research as the former is the need of the hour while the latter provides us with the technologies for the future. 

Participation in university strategic initiatives

Projects

Photonic quantum science and technologies

Under my Canada Excellence Research Chair in photonic quantum science and technologies, I am setting up a state-of-the-art quantum optics lab that will work on different aspects of quantum technologies using photons. 

Awards

  • 1. Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar: Yuva Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award 2024 for Physics (highest science prize from the Govt of India in the said category), Govt. of India. 2024
  • 2. Distinguished International Associate award, Royal Academy of Engineering, UK. 2024
  • 3. The 26th SIES Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi National Eminence award in Science and Technology, SIES. 2023
  • 4. Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in Photonic Quantum Science and Technologies, Govt. of Canada. 2023
  • 5. ASSOCHAM Women in Cyber: Making a Difference award in the category: Cyber - Leading from the front, The Associated Chambers of Commerce & Industry of India (ASSOCHAM). 2021
  • 6. Simon’s Emmy Noether Fellowship, Perimeter Institute, Canada. 2021
  • 7. Recognised as one of Top 100 Scientists in Asia in the year 2019, Asian Scientist. 2019
  • 8. ICTP-ICO Gallieno Denardo Award for Optics, International Centre for Theoretical Physics-International Commission for Optics. 2018
  • 9. Homi Bhabha Fellowship, Homi Bhabha Fellowship Council. 2017
  • 10. Queens’ College Bursary, Queens' College, Cambridge, UK. 2005
  • 11. Lundgren Research Award, University of Cambridge, UK. 2005
  • 12. Cambridge Philosophical Society studentship, Cambridge Philosophical Society, University of Cambridge, UK. 2005
  • 13. Gates Cambridge Scholarship for PhD in the University of Cambridge, 2002, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. 2002
  • 14. Overseas Research Students awards scheme 2002-2005 , Secretary of State for Education and Science, UK. 2002
  • 15. Chevening-Nehru Cambridge Scholarship to pursue a Masters degree in Physics-2000 (the only physics recipient of the award that year)., Chevening-Nehru Trust. 2000

Publications

In the News

More Information

   Embark on a Groundbreaking Journey in Quantum Photonics Across Two Continents!

We are witnessing an extraordinary moment in quantum photonics, where the convergence of light and quantum mechanics is reshaping our understanding of the universe and enabling technologies once confined to science fiction. I am thrilled to be given a unique opportunity for passionate researchers to join our pioneering quantum photonics initiative that spans two world-class laboratories across India and Canada.

This unprecedented research program offers more than just a position – it's an invitation to be part of a transformative scientific movement. As we establish our new state-of-the-art facility in Canada while maintaining strong ties with our highly acclaimed Indian laboratory, we're creating a bridge between two scientific powerhouses that will accelerate discoveries in quantum technologies. Our research encompasses cutting-edge areas including quantum communication, integrated photonic quantum computing, quantum sensing, precision tests of quantum mechanics and novel quantum-optical interfaces.

What makes this opportunity truly exceptional is its dual-laboratory structure. Team members will have the unprecedented advantage of working in both environments, experiencing diverse research cultures, and accessing complementary expertise and infrastructure. This international exposure will not only enhance your technical capabilities but also develop your global perspective and collaborative skills – essential attributes for future scientific leaders.

Whether you're a prospective PhD student dreaming of pushing the boundaries of quantum science, a postdoctoral researcher ready to lead cutting-edge projects, or a senior scientist eager to shape the future of quantum technologies, we offer an environment where your ambitions can thrive. Our team members will benefit from:

  • Access to advanced facilities and equipment across two international locations
  • Regular travel opportunities between India and Canada
  • Collaboration with leading scientists in both countries
  • Exposure to diverse research methodologies and cultural perspectives
  • The chance to work on breakthrough experiments that bridge theoretical concepts with practical applications
  • Strong industry connections in both regions
  • Comprehensive funding support and competitive compensation packages
  • Mentorship from established researchers in both locations

We're looking for individuals who share our passion for quantum science and our vision of international scientific collaboration. The ideal candidates will bring not just technical excellence, but also creativity, adaptability, and enthusiasm for working in a dynamic, multicultural environment, an opportunity to be part of a scientific adventure that transcends borders.