Heriot-Watt University heads a new quantum research hub, the Integrated Quantum Networks (IQN) Hub, which aims to develop secure quantum networks for a “quantum internet”. The UK government has invested £160 million in this project, which is part of a wider national strategy to make the UK a leader in quantum technology by 2035.
The IQN Hub will focus on creating large-scale quantum networks that can distribute quantum entanglement, leading to secure communication and potentially hack-proof data transmission. The hub also aims to connect next-generation quantum processors for enhanced computational power and to enable ultra-low-noise measurements using quantum sensors.
Professor Gerald Buller, who will lead the IQN Hub at Heriot-Watt University, explains that quantum technology has the potential to revolutionize many areas of our lives, from pharmaceutical research to new materials development. The hub’s goals include establishing a secure quantum internet, connecting quantum processors for enhanced computational power, and enabling ultra-low-noise measurements.
The UK government’s investment in the IQN Hub is significant, with over £20 million coming from partner support to translate quantum innovations into new products and services. The hub will bring together a network of over 40 non-academic collaborators, including startups, multinational corporations, and organizations like the National Cyber Security Centre and Scottish Enterprise.
In addition to its focus on developing secure quantum networks, the IQN Hub is part of Heriot-Watt University’s broader involvement in quantum research, with the university also playing significant roles in three other newly announced quantum hubs.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/groundbreaking-new-research-hub-aims-to-develop-near-unhackable-quantum-internet/