Research

The QIST CDT is embedded in three internationally leading research groups, the Quantum Engineering Technology Laboratories (QET Labs), the Bristol Quantum Information Institute, and the Sussex Centre for Quantum Technologies (SCQT).

Research at Sussex

The University of Sussex has a long-standing internationally-leading reputation in trapped-ion quantum computing. Sussex hosts two major ion trapping research groups operating over 11 separate ion trap experiments as a platform to develop quantum computing, quantum simulation, quantum networking and quantum clocks. The University stands out as one of the largest ion trapping centres in the world. The IQT group is developing practical, utility-scale ion-trap quantum computers. Sussex researchers pioneered the first strong interaction between an ion and a photon and theoretical research from the centre has given rise to an experiment that has been taken up by the International Space Station. From building practical quantum computers, constructing a quantum internet, realising a quantum radar to detecting brain activity via quantum sensors, Sussex is a critical mass concentration for the development of the wide range of quantum technologies with highly disruptive industry applications.

You can find our research areas here:

Below are some recent research highlights:

Professor Winfried Hensinger presents the annual ‘Queen’s Lecture’ in Berlin

The lecture, titled ‘Constructing the world’s most incredible machines: Quantum Computers’, was ‘gifted’ to the City of Berlin by the late Queen Elizabeth II on her state visit in 1965.

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BBC Breakfast: Making quantum computers modular

Our researchers have demonstrated for the first time that quantum bits can directly transfer between quantum computer microchips, with record-breaking speed and accuracy.

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Battery monitoring for carbon reduction

Dr Fedja Orucevic and the Quantum Systems and Devices group hosted the INSTA QT annual international workshop on 12 December, on the theme ‘Battery monitoring for carbon reduction’. The International Network for Sensors and Timing Applications in Quantum Technologies works with research partners across 12 countries to establish Global Virtual Workshops to tackle specific global challenges: poverty, zero hunger; good health and wellbeing; climate action; clean water and sanitation and sustainable cities and communities.

Magnetic imaging for assessing electric vehicle batteries

Physicists in the Quantum Systems and Devices group have used magnetic imaging for assessing electric vehicle batteries, detailed in this published peer reviewed paper in the Journal of Power Sources. With this new technology, the researchers can visualise the inside workings of an electric vehicle battery.

Research at Bristol

With multiple key breakthroughs in the past decade that will lead to the development of large-scale quantum technologies in the future, photonics is one of the technological platforms leading the way.

With the development of the resource and the integrated quantum chip, the University of Bristol spearheaded this quantum revolution. Now researchers at the University of Bristol push photonic quantum technologies forward while integrating with other quantum platforms.

You can find our research areas here:

Below are some research highlights:

QET Labs researchers develop world’s smallest quantum light detector on a silicon chip

Researchers at the University of Bristol have made an important breakthrough in scaling quantum technology by integrating the world’s tiniest quantum light detector onto a silicon chip.

A critical moment in unlocking the information age was when scientists and engineers were first able to miniaturise transistors onto cheap micro-chips in the 1960s.

Now, for the first time, University of Bristol academics have demonstrated the integration of a quantum light detector – smaller than a human hair – onto a silicon chip, moving us one step closer to the age of quantum technologies using light.

Making high performance electronics and photonics at scale is fundamental to realizing the next generation of advanced information technologies. Figuring out how to make quantum technologies in existing commercial facilities is an ongoing international effort being tackled by university research and companies around the world.

Read more here.

Pioneering robot poised to reach new heights in quantum

Researchers carrying out quantum research will be able to do so faster and more adaptably, thanks to a new robotic arm which could hold the key to major breakthroughs.

The invention, developed by a QET-Labs team led by QE-CDT alumnus Joe Smith in collaboration with the Bristol Robotics Laboratory, has a unique design, allowing quantum experiments to be conducted with unprecedented levels of speed, detail and complexity.

Read the full University of Bristol press release here.

Access the Advanced Science paper here.

University of Bristol to play key role in new quantum hubs

The University of Bristol is set to play a major role in a series of new hubs being launched to ensure the UK fully benefits from the potential of quantum technologies in areas ranging from healthcare to national security.

Applications include the transformation of early disease diagnosis, quantum cameras capable of detecting gas leaks, the creation of a ‘quantum internet’, and improved navigation and timing systems

The extensive Bristol involvement in the new quantum hubs shows that Bristol researchers are placed at the cutting edge of research in quantum technologies. As a result, QIST CDT students will be able to interact with leaders in the field, performing experiments that will transform our understanding of the applicability and scalability of quantum technologies.

Read more about that research here: July: Quantum Hubs funding – new | News and features | University of Bristol