Helping to pave the way for the UK government in the next quantum revolution
Revolutions in technology, enabled by huge advancements to manipulate and understand quantum systems, are happening now. Quantum technologies represent some of the most exciting and impactful innovations unfolding at home and worldwide. From computer chips that are several orders of magnitude more powerful than the ones we have today, to more efficient solar cells that can help us meet global sustainability goals, Imperial College London is helping to ensure that the UK is well-positioned to meet future challenges.
Advising government and investment in The Quantum Age
Our researchers have advised the Government on quantum technologies. Peter Knight (Department of Physics) has been active in establishing public investment into universities and companies conducting fundamental research. Knight and his colleagues developed significant programmes addressing quantum information technologies and information processing.
His research led to Knight working with Research Councils and governmental institutions to create programmes that would accelerate the development of quantum technologies in the UK. In 2014, he helped launch the UK’s 10-year National Quantum Technologies Programme that involved more than 20 universities and approximately 100 companies and £1bn. In investment.
In 2016, Knight co-authored a Blackett Review titled ‘The Quantum Age’, which reported on the state of commercialisation of quantum technologies. The publication and the success of the National Quantum Technologies Programme led to a second phase of funding into quantum technologies that commenced in 2019.