The University of Pretoria will host one of six new nationally funded quantum research hubs, UP Quantum Science and Technology (UPQuST), as South Africa commits to a five-year initiative strengthening its capacity in quantum sensing, computing, and secure communications. “This initiative will position UP at the centre of South Africa’s efforts to develop quantum technologies, build specialist skills, and translate advanced research into practical solutions for society and industry,” says Krüger. The research will concentrate on quantum sensing, metrology, and computing, with initial projects targeting improvements in agriculture, health, and mining.
UPQuST: Quantum Sensing for Agriculture, Health, and Mining
Prof. Tjaart Krüger’s team at the University of Pretoria is developing plasmon-based quantum biosensors that use entangled photons and surface plasmon resonance for faster, cheaper, and more sensitive detection of plant-pathogen biomarkers. This project, one of several flagship initiatives launched under the newly established UP Quantum Science and Technology (UPQuST) hub, directly addresses the need for earlier disease detection in agriculture, a critical concern for food security.
The biosensors aim to surpass classical detection methods by using quantum states of light to amplify signals from minute biological samples, potentially allowing for preventative measures before widespread crop damage occurs. UPQuST also focuses on improving mineral processing efficiency.
This project, a collaboration between Prof. Muaaz Bhamjee and researchers from the departments of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering, and Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering demonstrates a commitment to applying quantum technologies to South Africa’s key mining sector. “By bringing together physicists, engineers, computer scientists, chemists, and materials scientists, we will succeed in developing solutions that address national priorities,” said Prof. Bhamjee. Beyond sensing, UPQuST is investigating quantum metrology to refine thermal conductivity measurements in metallurgical slags, a process vital for optimizing metal production.
Supervised by Prof. Bhamjee and Dr. Jurgens de Lange, this project combines quantum-enhanced thermometry, quantum sensors and quantum mechanically optimized modelling to create a validated measurement protocol for industrial application. “It is about academic competitiveness, skills development, and creating technologies that can be commercialised,” Prof. Krüger emphasized, highlighting the initiative’s focus on practical outcomes.
The scope of UPQuST extends to quantum computing, with projects exploring hybrid classical-quantum machine learning, solid-state qubit discovery and AI-optimized circuit synthesis. Researchers are also investigating quantum-enhanced deepfake detection and quantum forensics for ransomware, demonstrating a proactive approach to cybersecurity challenges. An integrated pipeline combining chemistry and machine learning is being developed for natural product drug discovery from South African flora, with potential applications in human health.
“For example, quantum-enhanced sensors could detect crop diseases earlier, improve mineral processing efficiency, or enable more sensitive medical diagnostics. At the same time, quantum computing approaches may help tackle complex engineering simulations and cybersecurity challenges that are currently beyond classical computing,” Prof. Krüger explained. The initiative’s commitment to workforce development is equally significant, with plans to establish scholarships and postgraduate training programs to cultivate a quantum-ready workforce.
Bhamjee stated, “As the node develops, we will be able to grow researchers in this emerging field by establishing scholarships and other avenues for postgraduate training.” This focus on skills development recognizes that the long-term success of quantum technologies relies on a pipeline of qualified professionals capable of driving innovation and commercialization. The university views this as a core responsibility, aiming to equip future generations with the expertise needed to contribute to South Africa’s growing quantum ecosystem.
The six nationally funded quantum research hubs, including UPQuST will operate over the next five years, supported by the national Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. This sustained investment emphasises the national importance of quantum technologies and the commitment to establishing South Africa as a leader in this rapidly evolving field.
This initiative will position UP at the centre of South Africa’s efforts to develop quantum technologies, build specialist skills, and translate advanced research into practical solutions for society and industry.
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