UK government announces $18.4m backing for quantum tech projects

Goal is to develop next-generation sensors for industries like healthcare and transport.

The UK government is working to boost key sectors via quantum innovation, supporting various projects with a total of $18.4m (£14m) in funding. The goal is to facilitate the creation of next-generation sensors for possible use in industries like healthcare, transport, and defence.

The 14 projects being funded by the government include work on a quantum gravity gradiometer that can detect underground objects and tunnels; the development of a quantum timing unit, a quantum navigation system, and super-sensitive quantum sensors; and work on a quantum eye scanner and the first quantum brain scanner.

"Quantum technologies are changing the world – from ultra-sensitive sensors to help diagnose diseases through to the potential of a new type of computer that can do things in seconds that would take today's computers decades to compute," said Science Minister Lord Vallance.

"The UK already has considerable strengths and lots of exciting new companies have sprung up in the UK. The funding and agreements being announced aim to support this exciting and important growth area right across the country."

In Britain, it is estimated that quantum could contribute £11b to the country's gross domestic product whilst creating more than 100,000 jobs by 2045.

"The achievements of the UK's National Quantum Technologies Programme over the last 10 years have positioned the UK as one of the world's leading quantum nations," commented UKQuantum Executive Director Jonathan Legh-Smith, who believes the translation of innovation to commercial reality is already well underway.

"Our companies have developed world-leading technologies across the whole quantum domain – including sensing, imaging, clocks, and computing – with strong engagements across sectors such as transport, finance, telecommunications, and defence."