The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) has announced a doctoral studentship scheme, providing support for 30 students over eight years. The funding will be provided through EPSRC Industrial Cooperative Awards in Science & Engineering (ICASE), with the NQCC as the industrial partner. Currently, six doctoral studentships are available for eligible UK universities, to run from autumn 2025.
The application process has two stages, starting with an Expression of Interest (EOI) call, which closes on July 21, 2024. Shortlisted EOI summaries will then be developed into full proposals with an NQCC co-supervisor. The NQCC’s vision is to harness the power of quantum computing to solve complex problems facing society today.
The studentships aim to fund applied research aligned with the NQCC’s technology roadmap and objectives, driving the generation of skilled academic graduates employable across the UK quantum computing value chain. Research areas include quantum software, hardware, applications, and component technologies, with priority themes outlined in the NQCC’s strategic intent document.
Key individuals involved include Abby Crawford, the NQCC’s Director of Operations, and staff members from the NQCC’s five technical teams. Companies involved include EPSRC, a UK-based research funding agency.
What an exciting opportunity for PhD students interested in quantum computing! As a science journalist with a background in quantum physics, I’ll break down the key points of this call for applications.
The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) is seeking proposals that align with their priority research themes in both quantum software and hardware. The themes are:
Quantum Software:
- Tailored algorithms for near-term quantum advantage
- Benchmarking and verification of NISQ platforms
- Scalable error correction and noise mitigation protocols
- Emulation, noise modeling, and resource estimation
Quantum Hardware:
- Future directions in qubit architecture
- Demonstrations of error correction
- Networking of quantum computing systems
- Scaling through systems engineering, improved stability, and yield
- Scalable and synchronous control systems
- HPC integration
Funding and Eligibility:
The NQCC will award 6 EPSRC Industrial Cooperative Awards in Science & Engineering (ICASE) vouchers, each worth approximately £140,000, covering fees, stipend, and research expenses. The studentships are open to home students only, and applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria.
Application Process:
Applicants should submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) response form by July 21st, 2024. Shortlisted EOI summaries will be invited to develop full proposals with an NQCC co-supervisor. The application process involves two stages:
- EOI submission and shortlisting
- Full proposal development with an NQCC co-supervisor
EOI proposals should focus on applied research that advances the technology readiness level (TRL) of the area presented, aligning with the NQCC’s strategic intent document.
This is a fantastic opportunity for PhD students to contribute to the development of quantum computing in the UK. If you are interested in this field, I encourage you to explore these themes and submit your EOI proposal by July 21st, 2024!
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