A Strathclyde physics research fellow has been awarded a Quantum Technology Career Acceleration Fellowship by the UKRI Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
Dr Pablo Poggi will use the funding to investigate how to control the effects of chaos in quantum computers with the aim of creating new methods that leverage chaotic properties as a useful resource in important tasks, such as quantum sensing, error mitigation and validating the correct operation of a quantum computer.
The Quantum Technology Career Acceleration Fellowships recognise the most promising early career researchers in the UK and support them to develop their careers and push the boundaries of their field.
Game-changer
Dr Poggi said: “I am honoured to have been selected as an EPSRC Quantum Fellow. This Fellowship is a game-changer for my career, as it will allow me to pursue a long-term research plan that combines exploring fundamental questions about quantum mechanics together with developing practical methods to bring quantum technologies closer to reality.
“I am eager to kick off my fellowship and start building my research team, which will be embedded into the exciting quantum research already carried out in the Department of Physics at Strathclyde, as well as engaging with my industry and academic partners both in the UK and abroad."
The EPSRC is investing £15 million in total in the scheme to provide a platform for talented researchers at UK universities and encourage bright minds to contribute to the UK’s quantum ambitions.
The Fellowships are designed to accelerate researchers’ careers and fast track them towards world-leading positions in the future, ensuring the UK maintains its position as a global force in quantum technology.
Invaluable opportunity
The investment in emerging leaders provides them with an invaluable opportunity to advance responsible research and innovation, making it more inclusive and equitable. In doing so, Fellows will contribute to a vibrant and interconnected UK quantum technologies community and will champion various aspects including: challenging the socioeconomic bias in academic systems and encouraging greater inclusivity of neurodiverse individuals and other underrepresented groups.
Fellows will also support innovation activities to deliver growth in the sector and maximise opportunities to build connections with industry and end-users, reducing the gap between research and commercialisation.
EPSRC Executive Chair Professor Charlotte Deane said: "These awards highlight the diversity of our quantum technologies portfolio and amplify the importance of technological integration to deliver world leading capabilities for the UK.
“The Quantum Technologies sector is rapidly growing and evolving, so building a diverse and thriving workforce that can drive this forward is vital to unlocking economic and societal benefits in the future.
“By investing in the most promising researchers, not only are we boosting quantum skills, but we are also strengthening the research base and ensuring the UK can realise the incredible potential of new quantum technologies.”