A new national laboratory, The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC), dedicated to accelerating development of quantum computing for the UK, has been formally opened by Minister of Science, Research and Innovation, Lord Vallance.
Lord Vallance said at the opening: “The National Quantum Computing Centre marks a vital step forward in the UK’s efforts to advance quantum technologies. By making its facilities available to users from across industry and academia, and with its focus on making quantum computers practically useable at scale, this Centre will help them solve some of the biggest challenges we face, whether it’s delivering advances in healthcare, enhancing energy efficiency, tackling climate change, or inventing new materials.
The innovations that will emerge from the work the NQCC will do will ultimately improve lives across the country and ensure the UK seizes the economic benefits of its leadership in quantum technologies.”
Quantum computers have the potential to meet challenges beyond the reach of even the most advanced supercomputers.
Potential applications range from:
- Optimising energy distribution in power grids by improving efficiency and reliability
- Accelerating drug discovery
- Predicting climate patterns more accurately through advanced data analysis
- Improving use of AI in fields such as medical diagnostics and fraud detection
UKRI Chief Executive, Professor Dame Ottoline Leyser, said: “With our rich national heritage in quantum computing research the UK is well-placed to lead the development of this transformative new technology, which has such huge potential across society and the economy. The UK National Quantum Computing Centre is central to this critical work, bringing together internationally-leading researchers and technologists from across academia and industry to ensure that the UK’s quantum computing ecosystem thrives, delivering benefits to people across the UK and beyond.”
Delivered through EPSRC and STFC, the NQCC is supported through an initial £93 million UKRI investment and has attracted further UKRI funding of £50 million, to enhance the delivery of its mission which includes investment through the UKRI Technology Missions Fund.
The new facility will ensure that the UK continues to lead research and development on hardware, software and applications. These will be delivered through partnerships across government, industry and the research community.
NQCC Director, Dr Michael Cuthbert, said: “The inauguration of the National Quantum Computing Centre is an important milestone for the UK that reinforces our commitment to advancing quantum technology and fostering collaboration. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a hub for innovation, bringing together researchers, businesses, and stakeholders to unlock the transformative potential of quantum computing for the future.
I am incredibly proud of our team and our construction partners who have worked tirelessly to create such an outstanding facility enabling this amazing technology.”
The NQCC will also act as a hub for innovation, training and technical support that can be made accessible to businesses across the UK.