The University of Sussex and the University of Bristol have partnered to launch a new £24 million Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in quantum technologies. The centre, one of 65 new CDTs announced by the UK government, aims to address the shortage of skilled professionals in the quantum technology sector and support the country’s ambition to become a global leader in this field.
Key Details of the CDT
- Funding: The centre is funded by a £24 million package from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), industry partners, and other public sector organizations. This includes a £11.6 million support package from project partners such as the National Quantum Computing Centre and the National Physical Laboratory, as well as private investment from companies like BT, Hewlett Packard, and Oxford Instruments[4].
- Programme: Starting from September 2024, the CDT will offer a four-year, fully-funded programme of training and research in quantum technologies. Students will have the opportunity to work alongside each other through live lab feeds. Additionally, they will study quantum technology modules from both universities. This immersive approach ensures comprehensive learning and collaborative research experiences.
- Training: The programme will provide comprehensive training in quantum physics, engineering, and computer science. Furthermore, it will focus on entrepreneurship, project management, and responsible research and innovation (RRI). Additionally, it will include industry placements and entrepreneurship training. Participants will also have opportunities for international collaborations[3].
Leadership and Expertise
Professor Winfried Hensinger, Director of the Sussex Centre for Quantum Technologies and co-founder and chair of Universal Quantum, will head the centre. He emphasized the importance of investing in top-tier training for students to nurture the growth of quantum technology across the country. This leadership underscores the commitment to advancing quantum technology expertise[4].
Impact and Significance
The launch of this centre marks a significant step in addressing the shortage of skilled professionals in the quantum technology sector. It aims to provide essential training to support the UK’s ambition to be a world leader in quantum technologies. These technologies are expected to have a profound impact on fields such as secure communications. Additionally, they will revolutionize precision sensing and advanced computing[4].
Future Prospects
The centre contributes to a broader effort to support research in areas deemed by the UK government to be of national importance. Moreover, it is expected to foster groundbreaking research and collaborations, building on the recent achievements of Sussex researchers in connecting quantum microchips.
Eligibility and Applications
Applications for places on the quantum technology undergraduate degrees, starting in September 2024, are now open. The centre welcomes candidates with backgrounds in physics, mathematics, engineering, and computer science. It aims to produce graduates who are well-equipped to translate cutting-edge quantum research into real-world applications. Ultimately, the goal is to develop innovative solutions that address today’s challenges[3].
Conclusion
The University of Sussex and the University of Bristol have invested £24 million in a new CDT in quantum technologies. This significant initiative secures the future of quantum technology and trains the next generation of experts. Moreover, the centre provides comprehensive training and research opportunities, driving innovation and growth in this rapidly advancing field. It positions the UK as a global leader in quantum technology innovation and boosts the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies.
Citations:
[1] https://www.sussex.ac.uk/broadcast/read/63917
[2] https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/centres/sussex-centre-for-quantum-technologies/
[3] https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/centres/sussex-centre-for-quantum-technologies/training-quantum-technologies/quantum-information-science-technologies-phd
[4] https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/technology-innovation/universities-of-sussex-and-bristol-launch-24m-centre-to-train-quantum-leaders/
[5] https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/sussex/news/sussex-become-silicone-valley-quantum-technology/
