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$11.3M boost for innovative quantum projects in UK and Canada
General news Professors Students Alliance
January 27, 2025
Ten projects will foster quantum’s unique properties to drive innovation and scientific progress.
The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) today announce the recipients of the NSERC-UKRI call for proposals on quantum technologies (UK-Canada Quantum for Science Research Collaboration), a funding opportunity run jointly by UKRI through the International Science Partnerships Fund, and NSERC.
The allocation of $4.2 million from Canada and £4 million from the United Kingdom in grant funding will support ten innovative collaborative research projects between university researchers in both countries to advance research in quantum communications and quantum sensing and detection
A diverse range of disciplines
The selected projects span a diverse range of quantum disciplines, including quantum internet, quantum communication security, and quantum sensors for assessing brain disorders.
Each project has been selected for its potential to support key elements and specific missions of Canada’s National Quantum Strategy and the UK National Quantum Strategy.
The ten successful projects were selected through a rigorous peer-review process led by the UKRI, ensuring that the most promising and impactful research proposals received funding. The grant recipients will have the opportunity to work closely with their international counterparts, sharing knowledge and resources to achieve their collective research goals.
A strong international partnership
This joint funding initiative is part of the ongoing partnership between UKRI and NSERC to promote excellence in science and innovation, support cutting-edge research and training, and share quantum expertise between UK and Canadian research communities.
Both organizations are committed to supporting high-quality research that addresses global challenges and drives economic growth.
Professor Dame Ottoline Leyser, Chief Executive of UKRI, commented: “This partnership is exemplary of the ways in which UK-Canada collaboration continues to support pioneering research and innovation. By combining and sharing our resources and expertise, this funding will enable researchers to use quantum technology to develop innovative solutions that have huge potential across societies and economies globally.”
Professor Alejandro Adem, NSERC President, remarked, “NSERC is proud to support the UK-Canada Quantum for Science Research Collaboration, advancing cutting-edge research in quantum technologies. This initiative highlights the importance of international partnerships in driving scientific innovation and supporting Canada’s National Quantum Strategy.”
For more information about the recipients of the NSERC-UKRI call for proposals on quantum technologies, please visit the Alliance funding decisions webpage.
