Funding for quantum engineer training

Following the Chancellor’s budget announcement, the government is committing up to £15 million to train the next generation of quantum engineers.

The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council will fund the construction of skills centres for quantum technologies across the UK. These hubs will cooperate with industries in order to develop career programmes for PhD students.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “From cameras that can see through smoke to cracking down on internet fraud, quantum technologies are taking innovation to a whole new level and offer an unparalleled opportunity to shape the next generation of high-tech products that will improve our day-to-day lives. This £15 million investment will ensure we have the flexible, highly-skilled workforce needed to turn these futuristic ideas into a reality.”

This investment is the government’s response to a national strategy to stimulate growth and development in quantum technologies, such as 6G smartphones, in the UK.

“Quantum technologies are set to transform the way we live, pushing the boundaries of knowledge which will benefit healthcare, communications and security,” said Greg Clark, Minister of Universities, Science and Cities.

The strategy – launched by the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme – aims to highlight the billion-pound potential for the UK to become a world leader in the field.

Clark added: “Quantum skills will allow us to bring game-changing advantages to future timing, sensing and navigation capabilities, in a sector that could be worth more than £1 billion to the UK economy. That is why we are investing up to £15 million to train specialists with the right entrepreneurial and business skills to ensure we have the talent to keep us ahead of growing international competition.”