A hybrid quantum photonic interface for ${}^{1}71$Yb solid-state qubits

Abstract

${}^{171}$Yb${}^{3+}$ in YVO${}_4$ is a promising candidate for building quantum networks with good optical addressability, excellent spin properties and a secondary nuclear-spin quantum register. However, the associated long optical lifetime necessitates coupling to optical resonators for faster emission of single photons and to facilitate control of single ${}^{171}$Yb ions. Previously, single ${}^{171}$Yb ions were addressed by coupling them to monolithic photonic crystal cavities fabricated via lengthy focused ion beam milling. Here, we design and fabricate a hybrid platform based on ions coupled to the evanescently decaying field of a GaAs photonic crystal cavity. We experimentally detect and demonstrate coherent optical control of single ${}^{171}$Yb ions. For the most strongly coupled ions, we find a 64 fold reduction in lifetime. The results show a promising route towards a quantum network with ${}^{171}$Yb:YVO${}_4$ using a highly scalable platform.