UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves recently visited PsiQuantum’s research and development facilities at Sci-Tech Daresbury, where they were given a tour by co-founders Prof. Jeremy O’Brien and Mark Thompson. The company is working on developing the first utility-scale quantum computers, with its Daresbury facility playing a critical role in testing and developing prototype systems.
The UK has been a leader in quantum computing for decades, and companies like PsiQuantum are benefiting from the country’s focus on investment, research, and workforce development. Prof. O’Brien highlighted the importance of large-scale systems to unlock the promise of quantum computing, which is set to transform critical industries.
Quantum Computing Research and Development in the UK
The United Kingdom has long been a hub for quantum computing research and development, with companies like PsiQuantum playing a critical role in advancing the field. Recently, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves visited PsiQuantum’s research and development facilities at Sci-Tech Daresbury to gain insight into the company’s work on quantum computing.
During their visit, the Prime Minister and Chancellor were led by Co-founder & CEO Prof. Jeremy O’Brien and Co-founder & Chief Technologist Mark Thompson, who provided an overview of the company’s efforts to build the first utility-scale quantum computers. The tour included a showcase of PsiQuantum’s R&D operations, featuring prototype systems like PsiCube, a low-temperature quantum computing module built outside Oxfordshire.
The Daresbury facility, which opened in March 2023 and is led by Prof. Mark Thompson, is home to a team of engineers integral to testing prototype systems and advancing the development of large-scale quantum computers. The site has been an exciting development for PsiQuantum, with the resources and skills available in the UK drawing the company back.
The Significance of Large-Scale Quantum Computers
Large-scale quantum computers can potentially transform many critical industries, but their development requires significant investment in research and workforce development. The UK’s focus on these areas has enabled companies like PsiQuantum to anchor key R&D efforts in the country.
PsiQuantum’s work on silicon photonic chip platforms is a prime example of this. The company’s recent results, made possible by the testing and development of prototype systems at Daresbury, demonstrate the potential for large-scale quantum computers to unlock new capabilities in fields like medicine, finance, and climate modeling.
PsiQuantum’s Roots in the UK
PsiQuantum has deep roots in the UK, with its co-founders having previously held positions as professors at top universities. Prof. Jeremy O’Brien and Prof. Mark Thompson were both professors at the University of Bristol and directors of photonic quantum computing centers. Co-Founder & Chief Architect Prof. Terry Rudolph was a professor at Imperial College London, where he taught quantum physics.
This strong connection to the UK’s academic community has enabled PsiQuantum to tap into the country’s rich talent pool and leverage its research expertise. The company’s decision to establish its R&D facilities in Daresbury is a testament to the UK’s attractiveness as a hub for quantum computing innovation.
The Future of Quantum Computing
As companies like PsiQuantum continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with quantum computing, it is clear that the field has the potential to transform many aspects of our lives. From revolutionizing healthcare and finance to enabling new breakthroughs in climate modeling and materials science, the possibilities are vast.
However, realizing this potential will require continued investment in research and workforce development. The UK’s commitment to these areas has positioned it as a leader in quantum computing, and companies like PsiQuantum are poised to play a critical role in shaping the future of this exciting field.
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