It’s official, the University of Bristol has launched its Quantum Engineering Technology (QET) Labs. The labs host unique world-leading facilities and aims to bring together industrial and academic collaborators to build new devices that span numerous areas of quantum technology development. This includes everything from the nano-fabrication of quantum devices to a city-scale quantum key distribution network.
The QET labs will span the faculties of Science and Engineering in order to deliver “a radically new generation of machines that exploit quantum physics to transform our lives, society and economy”.
“QET Labs will be an international node for collaboration with industrial and academic world-leaders.”
There are a number of exciting potential applications for quantum computing, including developing secure communication systems for individuals, corporations and government; precision sensors for environmental monitoring, bio-medical applications and security; quantum simulators to design new materials, pharmaceuticals and clean energy devices; tackling challenges in big data and machine learning.
Launched during the Bristol Quantum Information Technologies Workshop 2015, hosted by the Centre for Quantum Photonics (CQP) at the University of Bristol, the Director of CQP Professor Jeremy O’Brien (pictured left) said “It seems fitting that we are standing here on Brunel’s SS Great Britain, in sight of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, launching a new venture that pays homage to such great historical figures as Dirac and Brunel. The QET Labs brings their contributions to humanity together binding quantum physics with engineering technology.”
Quantum leap forward
The Labs will house over 100 researchers working on quantum technologies whilst supporting the training of future quantum engineers. It aims to be a global centre for research, development and entrepreneurship in the emerging quantum technology industry.
Pro-Vice-Chancellor for research, Professor Nishan Canagarajah said “QET Labs will be an international node for collaboration with industrial and academic world-leaders.”
With work well under way the university is confident the labs will be operational by September.
If you’re interested in learning more about the developments at the University of Bristol’s physics department follow them on twitter @UniBrisPhysics, Facebook or check out the QET website.
For a chance to see more of the incredible work going on in the West of England be sure to visit Venturefest Bristol and Bath on 9 June.
