Insider Brief
- The University of Strathclyde will lead the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Applied Quantum Technologies.
- The center aims to address the urgent need for skilled quantum scientists and engineers.
- The initiative is part of a larger effort involving two new Centres for Doctoral Training led by Strathclyde.
The University of Strathclyde will help advance quantum technology in the UK by leading the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Applied Quantum Technologies, according to a university news release.
This initiative, directed by Professor Stefan Kuhr of the Department of Physics, is part of a larger effort involving two new Centres for Doctoral Training led by Strathclyde, with the university also collaborating in seven additional projects. These efforts are supported by a substantial investment from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), which has allocated over £1 billion for doctoral skills development in engineering and physical sciences across the UK.
The Applied Quantum Technologies CDT, while recognized for its potential to contribute to the quantum technology field, aims to address the urgent need for skilled quantum scientists and engineers, according to the release.
“This CDT stands as a flagship initiative in Scotland and the UK, playing a crucial role in training the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers,” said Kuhr.
Quantum Technology, based on the principles of physics at the atomic scale, has the potential to impact several critical areas, including communications, measurement and computing. Scientists suggest that the technology will one day enhance the security of global communications through quantum networks, improve precision in fields such as geology and biomedical imaging with quantum sensors and tackle complex computational problems with quantum computing.
In collaboration with the Universities of Glasgow and Heriot-Watt, along with more than 30 industry partners, the CDT aims to equip 80 PhD students with a deep understanding of quantum technology. The program covers a wide range of topics, from the foundational aspects of the technology to its applications in Quantum Measurement and Sensing, Quantum Computing and Simulation and Quantum Communications.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the skills gap in essential technological fields within the UK, fostering an environment conducive to innovation and progress. With plans to train over 4,000 doctoral students in various disciplines over the next nine years, the UK is positioning itself to tackle future challenges and contribute to societal and economic growth through scientific and technological advancements.
Pharmaceutical and Tech Training
Additionally, the University of Strathclyde is leading the EPSRC CDT in Cyber-physical Systems for Medicines Development and Manufacturing (CEDAR), under the guidance of Professor Alastair Florence, Director of CMAC. This program aims to transform the pharmaceutical and technology sectors by developing advanced medicines manufacturing processes. By leveraging digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and augmented reality, CEDAR seeks to train 90 future leaders, equipping them with the multidisciplinary skills necessary to innovate sustainable medicine production, thereby accelerating the delivery of new medicines to patients in a cost-effective manner. This initiative, alongside the Applied Quantum Technologies CDT, showcases Strathclyde’s commitment to addressing critical skills shortages and advancing technological innovation in key sectors.
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