As I settled into a cozy café in London, I found myself eagerly anticipating a discussion with Dr. Emily Harrison, a leading researcher in quantum technologies. Our conversation was poised to shed light on the transformative advancements and investments in quantum computing in both the UK and the US, and how these initiatives are propelling the commercialization of this groundbreaking technology.
Dr. Harrison began by elucidating the fundamental difference between classical and quantum computing. “Classical computers operate using binary bits, which are either 0 or 1. Quantum computers, in contrast, utilize qubits that can exist in a state of 0, 1, or both simultaneously due to a phenomenon called superposition,” she explained. This unique capability allows quantum computers to process information at exponentially faster rates, rendering them exceptionally potent tools for resolving intricate problems across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and artificial intelligence.
The UK has been making commendable progress in the realm of quantum technology. Dr. Harrison shared insights into recent governmental investments. “On July 26, 2024, the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology announced £106 million for five quantum research hubs. Located in Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, and Oxford, these hubs will focus on practical applications in healthcare, security, and clean energy,” she noted. The UK government’s vision of establishing a “quantum-enabled economy” by 2033 is clearly evident. Earlier this year, £45 million was earmarked for the Quantum Testbed Competition and the Quantum Catalyst Fund. “These initiatives aim to transition quantum technologies from theoretical research to practical applications,” Dr. Harrison added. “The objective is to develop prototypes for initial testing and evaluation, thereby accelerating the commercialization of quantum technologies.”
Across the Atlantic, the US has also been heavily investing in quantum research and development. Dr. Harrison highlighted the substantial funding allocated by the US government over recent years. “Since 2020, the US has funneled billions into quantum research, with $968 million allocated to the National Quantum Initiative (NQI) this year alone. This funding supports various governmental agencies, including the Department of Defense, NASA, and the Department of Energy,” she said. A significant development in the US is the reauthorization of the NQI, set to expire next year. “The reauthorization bill, which includes provisions for integrating AI in quantum research, will ensure the US remains at the forefront of quantum technology,” Dr. Harrison emphasized. Additionally, initiatives like Elevate Quantum, a private-public consortium in the Mountain West, have received substantial funding to drive quantum research and create jobs in the sector.
Despite the impressive investments by both the UK and US governments, Dr. Harrison underscored the importance of international collaboration. “On June 6, 2024, the Cleveland Clinic announced a new UK-US partnership for healthcare and life science applications of quantum technology. This collaboration between the Science and Technology Facilities Council Hartree Centre, the Cleveland Clinic, and IBM exemplifies the necessity for a coordinated, global approach to developing and managing quantum technology,” she stated. This partnership, which will receive £210 million over five years, aims to harness AI and quantum computing to enhance healthcare globally. “Such collaborations are crucial for realizing the transformative potential of quantum computing and ensuring that the benefits are shared worldwide,” Dr. Harrison remarked.
While the future of quantum computing appears promising, Dr. Harrison acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead. “One significant risk associated with quantum computing is data protection. Quantum computers’ capacity to solve complex mathematical problems rapidly could potentially undermine current cryptographic methods, posing a threat to personal and sensitive data,” she warned. Governments are beginning to address these risks by focusing on “quantum-readiness” and developing post-quantum encryption methods. “The US, for instance, is planning the migration of sensitive data to post-quantum encryption to counter emerging threats,” Dr. Harrison noted.
Moreover, despite the high levels of public investment, there has been a noticeable decline in venture capital investment in quantum technologies. “According to the State of Quantum 2024 Report, private investment in quantum declined by 80% in the US from 2022 to 2023. This drop indicates a reduced interest from the market, which could impact the pace of development and commercialization,” she explained.
As our conversation concluded, it became evident that both the UK and the US are making significant strides in quantum computing, with the potential to revolutionize various sectors. However, the journey to commercialization and widespread adoption will necessitate continued collaboration, investment, and a proactive approach to emerging risks. Dr. Harrison left me with a thought-provoking insight: “Quantum computing is not just about advancing technology; it’s about transforming our world. The investments we make today will shape the future of healthcare, security, and even our daily lives. It’s an exciting time to be part of this journey.” Walking away from our meeting, I was filled with a sense of anticipation for the future of quantum computing. The developments in the UK and US are merely the beginning, and the potential for this technology to change the world is truly immense.
