The UK Government’s recent announcement of a £2 billion investment in quantum technology aims to strengthen the national quantum technology ecosystem. A notable portion of this funding, £13.8 million, is dedicated to the National Quantum Technologies Programme Hubs, which includes the Q-BIOMED initiative hosted at University College London (UCL).
Q-BIOMED focuses on the development of optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs), which are used to measure brain activity in individuals with epilepsy. These OPMs operate at room temperature, making them more practical compared to traditional superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID)-based magnetoencephalography (MEG) scanners.
Professor John Morton, a prominent figure in the field, stated, “This major new investment in the UK’s quantum ecosystem represents a leap in ambition to unlock the potential economic and societal impacts of quantum technology.” This sentiment reflects the broader goals of the funding, which seeks to enhance the UK’s quantum infrastructure and support the development of specialist talent.
In addition to the £13.8 million for the National Quantum Technologies Programme Hubs, the UK Government has committed an additional £90 million to expand national infrastructure. Furthermore, £20 million has been allocated to new skills and commercialisation programmes, aimed at fostering innovation and growth within the sector.
Dr Umesh Vivekananda expressed enthusiasm for the developments, noting, “We’re entering an exciting phase for OPM-MEG and other quantum sensing technologies.” This investment is expected to pave the way for new partnerships and collaborations, particularly through the TechFirst Programme, which will offer up to 100 fully funded internships in the sector.
Liz Kendall, a representative from the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology, remarked, “Today’s announcements are an investment in our future – unlocking better health, wealth, and more opportunities for communities across the country.” This highlights the government’s commitment to leveraging quantum technology for societal benefits.
As the UK embarks on this ambitious initiative, observers are keenly watching how these investments will translate into tangible advancements in quantum technology and its applications, particularly in healthcare and beyond.