Heriot-Watt University has secured funding for a groundbreaking project in quantum communications under the first round of awards from the Photonics and Quantum Accelerator (PQA). This £4.7 million ($5.94 million USD) initiative, backed by UKRI and EPSRC, seeks to advance Scotland’s photonics and quantum technology sectors through collaboration among universities, industry, and civic partners.
Dr. Natalia Herrera Valencia is leading a project to develop a cost-effective, easy-to-use quantum photonic system for creating entanglement links over telecom networks. This innovation enables ultra-secure encryption and interconnected quantum computers, addressing critical demands for secure and efficient communication infrastructure. The system, currently undergoing trials with British Telecom, has the potential to revolutionize data security and transform quantum communications networks globally.
Scotland’s photonics sector, contributing over £1 billion ($1.26 billion USD) annually to the economy, is expected to expand to £4 billion ($5.06 billion USD) by 2030. The PQA fosters collaboration to accelerate innovation, support workforce development, and strengthen the region’s position as a global leader in photonics and quantum technologies.
This success underscores Heriot-Watt’s leadership in translating cutting-edge research into practical, impactful technologies, cementing its role in advancing Scotland’s photonics and quantum sectors.
For more information, visit the Photonics and Quantum Accelerator’s press release here and Heriot-Watt University’s announcement here.
December 17, 2024
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