Ignacio López Grande

Ignacio López Grande is a Research Fellow at ICFO (Institut de Ciències Fotòniques), specializing in quantum technologies with a focus on quantum key distribution (QKD) and photonics. He holds a PhD in Physics from Universidad de Buenos Aires (Argentina). His research emphasizes integrated photonic systems, secure communication protocols, and the development of robust optical devices for quantum applications. Key contributions include advancements in CV-QKD transmitters, polarization-based QKD systems, and CubeSat platforms for spaceborne quantum communication.

• Education: PhD in Physics (Universidad de Buenos Aires, 2018)

His work bridges fundamental quantum physics with applied photonics, addressing challenges in long-distance QKD, hybrid quantum-classical networks, and miniaturized optoelectronic components. Notable projects include the QUANGO CubeSat initiative for quantum-secured IoT connectivity and high-performance FPGA-based timing systems for optical communications. Collaborations focus on integrating QKD with existing fiber networks and enhancing signal robustness in multi-core fibers.

Research interests also extend to photon indistinguishability in interferometry and adaptive transmitter designs for versatile quantum protocols. His experimental contributions include hardware innovations like gain-switched DFB lasers and autonomous open-source QKD apparatuses.