United Kingdom: Establish an International Network in Quantum Technologies

Deadline: 30-Sep-21

The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) is seeking applications for the Establish an International Network in Quantum Technologies.

The research and capability enabled by these networks must focus on quantum technologies. Quantum technologies are those that involve the creation, control and manipulation of sensitive and fragile quantum effects within single systems.

Although many current and future technologies are described by quantum theory, the focus of this funding opportunity is on expanding capabilities focused on the direct exploitation of quantum phenomena such as superposition or entanglement to enable disruptive impacts in security, precision, sensitivity, accuracy or speed of sensing.

This includes:

quantum computing and simulation
quantum sensing and timing
quantum imaging
quantum communication
quantum components
cross-cutting quantum proposals.

Funding Information

The total funding available is £5,000,000.
Under full economic costing there is no limit on the amount of funding that can be applied for, but all costs must be fully justified. Typical network grants rarely exceed £500,000. Anything above this would need significant justification.
Proposals must be for a duration between 18 to 36 months and must start before 14 February 2022.

UKRI is looking for

This funding opportunity aims to ensure the UK is at the forefront of world-leading collaborations in quantum technologies by forming new international networks. There is no defined partner country list for the opportunity, nor a limit to the number of countries involved within a given network.

Each proposal must demonstrate:

evidence of potential for the network to advance the UK’s capabilities in an emerging area of quantum technologies
a clear rationale for the selection of network participants and partner country or countries
a plan for effective international collaboration whilst protecting intellectual property, sensitive research and personal information.
coverage of expertise and skills in order to achieve the network’s stated aims
the ability to enable virtual collaboration

Eligibility Criteria

Standard EPSRC eligibility rules apply. Research grants are open to:
- UK higher education institutions
- research council institutes
- UKRI-approved independent research organisations
- eligible public sector research establishments
- NHS bodies with research capacity.
You can apply if you are resident in the UK and meet at least one of the bullets:
- are employed at the submitting research organisation at a level equivalent to lecturer or above
- hold a fixed-term contract that extends beyond the duration of the proposed project, and the host research organisation is prepared to give you all the support normal for a permanent employee
- hold an EPSRC, Royal Society or Royal Academy of Engineering fellowship aimed at later career stages
- hold fellowships under other schemes.