The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), Peter Kyle, visited the University’s Sussex Centre for Quantum Technologies (SCQT) last Friday 15 August.
The visit comes a month after the announcement of a world-record discovery in quantum sensing by Sussex researchers, and after the Government’s industrial strategy dedicated £670 million to accelerating the application of this revolutionary technology to enable the construction of quantum computers by 2035.
Science and Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle said: “The amazing work I have seen at the University of Sussex and Universal Quantum is exactly the kind of regional innovation our Industrial Strategy is designed to support and encourage.
“The innovations taking place here are a great example of how world-class research and teaching can create the skills and jobs that improve lives right across the country, whilst also maintaining our global position as a pioneer in quantum technologies for the long haul.”
During his visit, the Secretary of State met with Professor Winfried Hensinger, who leads SCQT and co-founded its spin-out company Universal Quantum, to learn about Sussex’s plans to construct the world’s most powerful computer, capable of solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges, and its world-record breaking discoveries.
Professor Hensinger said: “We were delighted to share with the Secretary of State how Sussex is converting frontier quantum science into practical technology – from record-setting sensing to the engineering required for utility-scale quantum computers.
“It’s a most exciting time being able to say that have some of the world’s most powerful computing technology being developed right here in the UK. We are working on growing a step-changing ‘Quantum Silicon Valley’ and the construction of the world’s most powerful computer right here in Greater Brighton.”
Professor Sasha Roseneil, Vice-Chancellor and President, said: “It was a real pleasure to welcome the Secretary of State to the University of Sussex, and to share some of the extraordinary research and innovation that is driving technological change and contributing to the UK economy.
“The University of Sussex is investing significantly in quantum computing to support our world leading researchers, whose work has the potential for enormous positive impact to the benefit of both the UK and the whole world.
“The University of Sussex and the greater Brighton area have a plan to create a ‘Quantum Valley’ in Sussex, with the University acting as a catalyst. The University has one of the most comprehensive high level training programmes in the world, which includes a four-year quantum technology undergraduate degree and the UK’s first quantum technology online distance learning degree.”
Watch a video of Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle talking about his recent visit to SCQT and the ground-breaking work happening at the University.