UK Research and Innovation have recently reported the launch of five quantum technology hubs in the United Kingdom (UK). These hubs will ensure that the country benefits from the potential of quantum technology, ranging from computing and healthcare to critical infrastructure and national security.
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Background
The UK has recently established five quantum technology hubs aimed at shaping a future where cutting-edge science enhances everyday life. These hubs will support the deployment of quantum technology in various sectors by bridging the gap between practical solutions and brilliant ideas.
They will transform sectors like security, healthcare, and energy, resulting in secure critical infrastructure from hostile threats and faster disease diagnoses. Additionally, these hubs will create an accelerated innovation culture that assists in the economic growth of the country.
The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) is delivering those hubs with a £106 million investment from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), EPSRC, National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), and Medical Research Council (MRC). The UK Quantum Biomedical Sensing Research Hub (Q-BIOMED) is supported by the NIHR, MRC, and BBSRC investment, with industry collaboration playing a core role in all of the hubs.
The UK Hub for Quantum Enabled Position, Navigation and Timing (QEPNT)
Led by the University of Glasgow, the QEPNT hub aims to develop quantum technologies that will play a pivotal role in critical infrastructure, national security, and various sectors, including agriculture, maritime, finance, autonomous and connected vehicles, and aerospace. These technologies include light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors and atomic clocks, which are essential for resilient navigation, positioning, and timing.
Quantum-enabled devices developed at the QEPNT hub are expected to be lighter and smaller, opening up new applications in sectors such as underground transport, railways, and roads. These advancements could enhance pathfinding systems by replacing current global positioning system (GPS) technologies.
Moreover, quantum technologies could significantly upgrade submarine positioning systems, enabling them to operate for extended periods without needing to surface for satellite reconnection. They could also improve indoor navigation on mobile devices.
Hub for Quantum Computing via Integrated and Interconnected Implementations (QCI3)
The QCI3 hub, hosted by the University of Oxford, is dedicated to advancing the technologies needed for the UK to become a key player in quantum computer development. Researchers at the hub will collaborate closely with industry partners to develop and identify practical quantum computing applications, with a particular focus on designing novel materials, chemicals, machine learning, and fluid simulation techniques.
For example, the hub will concentrate on developing quantum machine learning protocols that are essential for the advancement of quantum neural networks. These neural networks have significant potential applications in areas such as fraud detection.
Integrated Quantum Networks (IQN) Quantum Technology Research Hub
The IQN hub, led by Heriot-Watt University, will initiate its research with a focus on achieving the ultimate goal of creating a quantum internet. This envisioned network would globally interlink quantum computers, generating immense computational power. These quantum networks will utilize the unique properties of quantum physics, such as quantum memory and entanglement, to ensure effective operation.
In addition to building these networks, the hub aims to ensure that its design supports future-proof distributed quantum sensing applications, secure quantum communications, and reliable access to future quantum computing services. This foundational work will be crucial in establishing a resilient and secure quantum infrastructure on a global scale.
UK Quantum Technology Hub in Sensing, Imaging and Timing (QuSIT)
The QuSIT hub, hosted by the University of Birmingham, aims to tackle the significant research challenges that currently limit the large-scale application of quantum timing, imaging, and sensing technologies. The successful development of these technologies will have far-reaching implications across a variety of sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, security, and transport.
For example, the hub will work on developing quantum brain scanners and quantum microscopy, which are expected to significantly advance the investigation of conditions like epilepsy and dementia, as well as improve the measurement of cancer diagnostic biomarkers. Additionally, quantum clocks and quantum cameras will enhance radar systems, leading to better utilization of future airspace and the ability to detect hidden objects and gas leaks.
Moreover, quantum sensing technologies that can detect magnetic and gravity fields will play a critical role in enhancing the capacity and resilience of vital infrastructure. The QuSIT hub will actively collaborate with industry to cultivate the necessary skills and talent, shaping the next generation of leaders in the field. Furthermore, the hub will establish a pathway for the widespread manufacturing and deployment of quantum technologies, thereby accelerating both societal and economic benefits.
The UK Q-BIOMED
The Q-BIOMED hub, led by the University of Cambridge and UCL, is focused on revolutionizing early disease diagnosis through the use of advanced quantum sensors that can detect molecules and cells with far greater sensitivity than conventional diagnostic tests. This cutting-edge approach aims to bring about significant improvements in medical diagnostics and patient outcomes.
One key area of research includes the development of sensors capable of measuring minute magnetic field changes in the brain, which could potentially detect early markers of Alzheimer’s disease before symptoms manifest. Additionally, the hub is working on quantum-enhanced blood tests that offer rapid and cost-effective diagnosis of cancer and infectious diseases using portable instruments, making advanced diagnostics more accessible.
The Q-BIOMED hub’s research extends to other areas as well, including quantum-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, heart scanners, and treatments, as well as surgical interventions for early-stage and difficult-to-treat cancers.
Through these advancements, the UK aims to establish itself as a global leader in quantum technology by developing practical applications that will benefit sectors like security, healthcare, and energy, ultimately improving everyday life and driving economic growth.
Journal Reference
Five hubs launched to ensure the UK benefits from quantum future [Online] Available at https://www.ukri.org/news/five-hubs-launched-to-ensure-the-uk-benefits-from-quantum-future/ (Accessed on 08 August 2024)
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