Quantum and Nano Technologies
‘The Nano and Quantum World’, one of the University’s six Research Beacons, is led by the College of Science & Engineering.
Our strength builds on over 30 years of excellence in micro- and nanofabrication, delivered through the world-leading James Watt Nano Fabrication centre (JWNC). The JWNC hosts >£37m of nanofabrication tools, supporting >£53m active University research grants as well as four EPSRC Quantum Technology Hubs. Additionally, the Kelvin Nanocharacterisation Centre operates and develops a suite of highly advanced microscopes to observe and measure the physical, chemical, electronic, and magnetic structure of materials systems.
In the field of nanotechnology our researchers study fundamental phenomena and the properties of materials, they are developing essential fabrication techniques and modelling tools to enable real-life devices. For instance, creating sensors that enable measurements to be made at these length scales with much higher precision that conventional ones, as well as delivering semiconductor and superconducting devices to enable the next generation of quantum technologies.
Our investigations cover magnetic, spintronic, photonic, mechanical and thermal properties, and research connects quantum computing and sensing, condensed matter and material science. Our research contributes to a wide range of applications spanning information processing, sensing and energy harvesting for healthcare, security, environmental monitoring, position, navigation and timing and many more.
The University’s Centre for Quantum Technology brings together physicists, engineers and computer scientists to tackle cutting-edge scientific, technological research and innovation in quantum research. Challenges addressed include Sensing & Imaging for Climate Change, Defence and Security; Intelligent Transport & Imaging for Space.
The University leads QuantIC, the UK Quantum Technology Hub in Quantum Enhanced Imaging, bringing industry and academia together to revolutionise imaging across industrial, scientific and consumer markets.