UK quantum summer schools launched

 
Summer School website header with the logos of the four UKNQTP Quantum Technology Hubs
Early career scientists are being invited to apply for places at the first EPSRC-backed international residential quantum technology summer schools. The schools will be run by the UK Network of Quantum Technology Hubs and the Quantum Engineering Centre for Doctoral Training.

Two separate programmes in 2023 will offer 120 places based at the universities of Birmingham and Bristol during July and August.

Places will be awarded to students at PhD level from the UK, USA and Canada, with living costs and fees paid by EPSRC. Travel bursaries are available for those who might not otherwise be able to attend.

The international summer schools will increase the talent available to the UK, strengthen bonds with like-minded nations, and secure a collaborative future for the commercial development of quantum technologies.

Each school will deliver world-class training to some of the most promising quantum technology researchers.

The International Summer School in Quantum Technologies, which will be based at the University of Birmingham between August 1-10, covers the full spectrum of quantum technologies. 

The programme will include laboratory opportunities as well as lectures from industry partners to the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme (NQTP) and world-leading scientists. It is a partnership between the Hubs and research institutions in Canada. 

Programme Director Professor Miles Padgett said: “On behalf of all four quantum technology hubs, we are excited to be organising the first international summer school for the next generation of both UK and Canadian researchers.”

The International Summer School in Integrated Quantum Photonics, which will run from July 19-26 at the University of Bristol, will offer places to 60 students, half from north America.

Quantum Engineering Centre for Doctoral Training Director Dr Jorge Barreto said: “This is an exciting opportunity for the UK to showcase the potential of the quantum photonics platform, strengthen our existing links in North America, and reach out to a much more diverse scientific community."

It will focus on six areas: classical photonics; quantum photonics; computer laboratories; business, enterprise and innovation; hybrid photonics; and systems laboratories.

The registration process for both summer schools will begin in January with an invitation for applicants to submit a written relevant proposal. This could cover areas such an applicant’s doctoral topic, quantum entrepreneurship or societal impact.

Joint Head of Quantum Technologies at EPSRC Dr Anke Davis said: “We are delighted to be funding these important programmes, not least because quantum technologies cannot be developed in isolation. The summer schools will advance skills and training and set firm foundations for valuable international quantum collaborations involving the UK.”