The UK government has announced over £100 million ($128.6 million USD) in funding for five new quantum research hubs aimed at delivering advancements in healthcare, cybersecurity, and transport. Located in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Oxford, and London, these hubs will develop practical quantum technologies, such as faster medical scanners, secure communication networks, and next-generation positioning systems. The areas each of these hubs will working and the university leading these hubs includes the following:
- UK Quantum Biomedical Sensing Research Hub – University College London and University of Cambridge
- UK Quantum Technology Hub in Sensing, Imaging and Timing – University of Birmingham
- Integrated Quantum Networks Quantum Technology Hub – Heriot-Watt University
- Hub for Quantum Computing via Integrated and Interconnected Implementations – University of Oxford
- The UK Hub for Quantum Enabled Position, Navigation and Timing – University of Glasgow
Announced by Science Secretary Peter Kyle, the initiative will see researchers and businesses collaborating to leverage quantum technologies for real-world applications. This includes developing quantum-enhanced blood tests, resilient position, navigation and timing systems, and a future “quantum internet” for secure communications.
The hubs will focus on various areas, including ultra-sensitive disease diagnosis, advanced sensing technologies, and quantum computing. The UK government’s investment underscores its commitment to utilizing cutting-edge science to improve everyday lives and support economic growth.
A press release from the UK’s Department of Science, Innovation, and Technology with additional information can be accessed here. Another news release from the University of Oxford with additional details about their hub can be seen here.
July 27, 2024