Commenting on the announcement, Dr Nick Singh, CTO at CSA Catapult said: “It is positive to see the UK government investing in quantum technologies and creating regional ecosystems to foster innovation and collaboration.
“Quantum technologies using compound semiconductors will revolutionise industry by exponentially increasing computational power, enabling breakthroughs in healthcare, security and energy security. State-of-the-art quantum test beds and integration photonics processes will ensure these new quantum technologies are reliable, robust and fit for purpose.
“We have extensive expertise in developing quantum hardware and work closely with academia and industry on a range of collaborative R&D projects.
“With offices and labs in Newport, Bristol, Glasgow and Durham, we are also strategically positioned at the centre of clusters of expertise in the quantum and the telecoms industry.
“Our Future Telecoms Hub in Bristol is already engaged in several research projects with academic partners including UCL and Bristol University.
“We look forward to exploring collaboration opportunities with each of the five new quantum hubs and helping the UK create an ecosystem of accelerated innovation that benefits our economy.”
Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, Peter Kyle, said: “We want to see a future where cutting-edge science improves everyday lives. That is the vision behind our investment in these new quantum technology hubs, by supporting the deployment of technology that will mean faster diagnoses for diseases, critical infrastructure safe from hostile threats and cleaner energy for us all.
“This isn’t just about research; it’s about putting that research to work. These hubs will bridge the gap between brilliant ideas and practical solutions. They will not only transform sectors like healthcare and security, but also create a culture of accelerated innovation that helps to grow our economy.”