NSF-UK Research And Innovation Invests $10M in QC Research
UKRI Research & Innovation Breaking barriers, NSF and UKRI are investing $10 million in quantum chemistry and future technology.
With UKRI and the NSF working together, quantum chemistry is going to change. The organisations invested $10 million together. Eight new cooperative initiatives between renowned US and UK experts will be led by this financing. This strategic project aims to explore poorly studied quantum effects on chemical reactions and molecular systems and find ways to apply that knowledge. These projects aim to make breakthroughs that could transform quantum technology. Bold Financial Support for Cross-Atlantic Science The effort relies on large funding from both countries, demonstrating worldwide quantum research momentum. Along with £4.2 million from UKRI's EPSRC, the NSF is contributing $4.7 million. Joint funding supports eight projects that use the best skills in both nations. The collaboration goes beyond transactions and is rooted in the U.S.-U.K. Technology Prosperity Deal. This high-level agreement was created to foster collaboration in emerging fields including AI and quantum research. Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Michael Kratsios called the cooperation “visionary” highlighting its strategic importance. He highlighted that expanding on the President's U.S.-U.K. Technology Prosperity Deal will revolutionise quantum mechanics and establish “new frontiers in quantum computing, sensing, and communicating”. Brian Stone, NSF director, stressed the investment's unifying purpose. Using real-world problems, the projects “showcase the power of shared investment.” Stone said the partnership promotes “bold, collaborative science” and could lead to life-changing advances. These upgrades include next-generation navigation and sensing equipment and stronger computer systems. EPSRC Executive Director for Research Jane Nicholson said this joint EPSRC-NSF investment in quantum information science in chemistry reflects UKRI's commitment to investigating “compelling scientific frontiers” and collaborating with global partners. She expects these projects will “create new avenues for transformative science and the quantum technologies of the next generation.” Use Molecular Complexity to Revolutionise Technology Overcoming quantum technology's limits drives these eight coordinated projects. Modern quantum systems use atoms and photons. In contrast, research teams are trying to use chemical systems' rich, natural complexity. This research's goal is to create new molecular-based qubits and other necessary components for quantum computing, sensing, and communications. To apply quantum phenomena to real life, researchers are focussing on a few key areas: New Qubit Design: The organisations are trying to produce qubits that could form the basis of future quantum computers. These projects focus on molecule-based qubits.
Highly sensitive molecular compasses are being developed by scientists. Advanced navigational aids may be more accurate than current methods. The program researches molecular-scale memory systems, which may advance data storage technologies. Quantum secure communications are being developed These ambitious technical goals aim to create practical solutions that will boost living standards, commercial growth, and US and UK national security. Fostering Future Experts and Strong Bonds This collaboration prioritises creating the next generation of quantum workers over rapid technological benefits. The programs are carefully designed to train early-career researchers and graduate students. These future experts will learn molecular spectroscopy, quantum optics, and nanofabrication. By nurturing new talent and encouraging daring, cooperative science, the program puts the US and UK at the forefront of quantum innovation. Aiming to improve long-term scientific collaborations between U.S. and U.K. institutions, this framework Keep the momentum: Cooperation Plans
The NSF and UKRI are also establishing further initiatives to improve joint research and bilateral engagement beyond the first eight projects, understanding the necessity for consistent work in this tough area: Center-to-Center Cooperation: This initiative allows NSF-funded centres and institutes to work with UK centres and institutions and receive up to $500,000. This alliance will emphasise quantum information science and AI. NSF and UKRI plan to support a collaborative research centre on quantum information science in chemical systems in fiscal year 2026. By focussing on quantum chemistry, this global alliance advances computers, sensing, and secure communications. The alliance illustrates a global shift towards strategic international cooperation by combining resources and expertise to solve difficult scientific problems that no single nation can solve. These newly awarded efforts are likely to lead to scientific advancements in the US, UK, and internationally.