A RESEARCHER at the University of Strathclyde has become one of just 10 academics in the UK to secure a prestigious fellowship worth almost £1 million for study in quantum physics.
Dr Jonathan Pritchard, of Strathclyde’s Department of Physics, has received the Quantum Technologies Fellowship, funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), to support his research into the field.
A total of £12m is being awarded to the group of 10, whose work focuses on the direct exploitation of quantum phenomena, to address the challenges of translation of quantum science through technology to eventual application.
Dr Pritchard, who received £950,000, said: “It’s fantastic to receive this award, particularly as there was a lot of competition for it, and I’m looking forward to carrying out novel research, as well as taking my career forward."
His award is for a project entitled A Hybrid Atom-Photon-Superconductor Quantum Interface.
He aims to develop a hybrid device combining atoms and superconducting circuits, to provide a route to next-generation technology capable of manipulating light at the single photons to enable scalable quantum networking.
The scientist added: “The system I’m looking to develop is an interface between different quantum technologies. It would be designed to meet all the requirements for quantum computing, with longer storage time, faster speeds and easier connectivity, and could help create quantum computer networks, by operating like a router.”
UK Minister for Universities and Science Jo Johnson added: “The UK has some of the world’s leading academic talent in the field of Quantum Technology research.
"It is science that tests us all to comprehend but developments in this area promise real world benefits that can affect technologies from healthcare to communications and finance to defence.
"Investing in those at the forefront of this revolution will put the country in pole position in the future.”
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