University of Glasgow Leads New Quantum Technologies Research Alliance with Scottish Funding

University of Glasgow Leads New Quantum Technologies Research Alliance with Scottish Funding

(IN BRIEF) The University of Glasgow has been selected to lead a novel research alliance in quantum technologies, backed by the Scottish Funding Council’s (SFC) Alliance for Research Challenges (ARCs) program. This initiative, supported by up to £600,000 in funding over four years, aims to form interdisciplinary teams to accelerate major research grant proposals, especially in areas like medical diagnostics, sustainable energy, computing, and communications. The University’s expertise in quantum science and technology positions it as a key player in advancing these breakthroughs. This endeavor is part of a broader effort to address significant global challenges through collaborative research.

(PRESS RELEASE) GLASGOW, 24-Aug-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — The University of Glasgow, a major research-led university, is set to foster its third collaborative research partnership, propelled by support from the Scottish Funding Council (SFC).

Marking yet another stride in the institution’s pursuit of excellence, the University of Glasgow is poised to spearhead a fresh research alliance in the realm of quantum technologies. This groundbreaking initiative is bolstered by the Scottish Funding Council’s Alliance for Research Challenges (ARCs) program.

The esteemed project will be under the guidance of the University’s School of Physics & Astronomy and James Watt School of Engineering, leveraging the strengths of both departments to push the boundaries of quantum advancements.

Joining the ranks of the previously unveiled Scottish Brain Health ARC and the Scottish Alliance for Food at the University of Glasgow, this quantum-focused endeavor aligns with the University of St Andrews’ leadership in a fourth ARC dedicated to energy-related research.

The Quantum Technologies ARC is poised to receive a substantial injection of up to £600,000 in SFC funding over the course of the next four years. This financial support will serve as a catalyst for assembling interdisciplinary teams spanning various sectors. These teams will be instrumental in bolstering major research grant proposals, including those on the international stage.

At its core, the ARCs initiative represents a concerted effort to address some of the most profound questions facing governments globally, including the Scottish Government. Quantum technology, with its potential to revolutionize medical diagnostics, zero-carbon energy production, computing, and communications, lies at the heart of this transformative endeavor.

The Quantum Technologies ARC is positioned to leverage Scotland’s established eminence in quantum science and technology. This undertaking will not only amplify the nation’s existing capabilities but will also cultivate the essential skill set required to harness future advancements.

Undoubtedly, Scotland occupies a central role in the UK’s quantum mission. The University of Glasgow currently leads one of the UK’s four quantum technology hubs, QuantIC, and significantly contributes to the remaining three. Scotland also proudly hosts the sole UK Fraunhofer Centre and the University of Glasgow’s James Watt Nanofabrication Centre, pivotal components of the UK’s Quantum program.

The Quantum Technologies ARC will bask in the benefits of these collaborations, forging ties with these esteemed research centers, as well as establishing new connections with industry partners. These interactions will be instrumental in transmuting theoretical concepts into real-world applications, particularly in the field of healthcare. Moreover, the alliance is committed to exploring the broader societal and economic implications of quantum technologies.

The initiative is poised to dismantle barriers obstructing the translation of quantum research into practical applications. It will foster a dedicated network designed to surmount these challenges, ultimately amplifying the impact of quantum-oriented research and development on Scotland’s burgeoning economy. By championing interdisciplinary collaboration, the Quantum Technologies ARC is charting a trajectory towards a future powered by quantum possibilities.

The co-leads of the Quantum Technologies ARC, Dr Ashley Lyons and Dr Sam Bayliss, said: “We are seeing rapid and remarkable developments in using quantum-mechanical features of the world to enable practical technologies, with Scotland being a key player in this progress.

“The key to realising the potential benefits of such technologies is a holistic approach which creates dialogue between market-driven challenges; cutting-edge research – including in subjects such as the arts, humanities, and social sciences – and wider society.

“Thanks to this ARC, we are in a special position to be able to achieve this, and create a new, interdisciplinary hub for quantum technologies development in Scotland.”

Helen Cross, SFC’s Director of Research and Innovation, said: “It’s great to be able to confirm another collaborative award in our ARCs programme. Creating a research challenge for quantum technologies will accelerate Scottish research collaboration in this area and allow us to benefit from the potential of quantum technologies more fully and more quickly.

“An important aspect of the multi-disciplinary approach is that the cross-university network will consider the ethical and societal impact of the technology as well as the science itself.”

Media contact:
media@glasgow.ac.uk

SOURCE: University of Glasgow