Quantum light to accelerate bacterial detection: ILAMP and COPAN join forces in the QuBi project

The ILAMP laboratories of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore and COPAN Italia have launched QuBi – Quantum-based Bacteria Identification, a pioneering research project funded under the National Quantum Science and Technology Institute (NQSTI) within the Italian PNRR programme.

The initiative explores the use of quantum light sources—specifically single-photon and entangled-photon systems—to revolutionize bacterial detection and identification.

The goal is to drastically reduce diagnostic times for sepsis, a condition responsible for 11 million deaths each year, by enabling the reliable recognition of pathogens in just a few hours.

By combining COPAN’s expertise in microbiology and automated sample processing with ILAMP’s advanced quantum and ultrafast spectroscopy technologies, QuBi aims to demonstrate that quantum-enhanced sensing can outperform traditional optical and microbiological methods in sensitivity and speed. The project also lays the groundwork for new intellectual property and potential industrial applications in the biomedical sector.

Beyond its scientific ambition, QuBi embodies a model of effective collaboration between academia and industry, fostering technology transfer and innovation. The partnership exemplifies how quantum technologies can move from the laboratory to real-world diagnostics—an opportunity open to other companies interested in developing next-generation biomedical solutions with Università Cattolica’s research centers.