Professor Ramana Nanda of Imperial Business School and Dr. Aga Iwasiewicz-Wabnig of the University of Cambridge’s Maxwell Centre will jointly direct the newly launched UK Quantum SuperConnector, an initiative designed to accelerate the commercialization of quantum research across the nation. Cambridge’s contribution builds on its existing successes with startups like Nu Quantum and Riverlane, and the October 2026 launch of the IonQ Quantum Innovation Centre, which will house the UK’s most powerful quantum computer next year. The consortium, including Imperial, Cambridge, Bristol, Glasgow and Oxford, aims to connect entrepreneurs, investors and policymakers to strengthen the UK’s quantum ecosystem.
Cambridge and Imperial Co-Direct Quantum Commercialization Initiative
Dr. Aga Iwasiewicz-Wabnig will serve as Co-Director, working with Professor Ramana Nanda, who will lead the initiative overall, establishing a unified approach to commercializing quantum technologies across the UK. This collaboration aims to bolster the nation’s position in the rapidly evolving quantum field by directly addressing the need for a robust pathway from scientific discovery to viable business ventures. The initiative’s focus extends beyond simply funding research. It will actively cultivate a national network connecting entrepreneurs, investors and industry leaders to accelerate the adoption of quantum technologies.
“The UK’s long-standing strategic investment in quantum research, including through its National Quantum Technologies Programme (NQTP), already generates strong science,” said Iwasiewicz-Wabnig. “We must now build a comparable capability to commercialize and deploy emerging quantum-enabled technologies, wherever in the UK the best ideas originate.” This commitment to nationwide impact highlights the SuperConnector’s ambition to encourage innovation beyond traditional research hubs.
Cambridge’s involvement will specifically include a dedicated quantum track within the Maxwell Centre’s impulse for tech innovators accelerator program, providing targeted support for quantum startups. The University will also launch a UK-wide digital ecosystem platform to further facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Professor Mete Atatüre, Head of Cambridge’s Cavendish Laboratory, stated, “We will also explore connections with the recently-launched IonQ Quantum Innovation Centre, enabling UK quantum innovators to accelerate their progress towards commercial deployment.” The SuperConnector’s scope encompasses not only technological advancement but also workforce development, recognizing the critical need for skilled personnel to support the commercialization of quantum applications in sectors like healthcare, finance and aerospace. The program will prioritize building commercial skills and networks, supporting new ventures and facilitating licensing opportunities and collaborative research.
Professor Nanda emphasized the potential for economic growth, stating, “The UK has a unique opportunity to turn its world-leading quantum research into globally competitive companies that will create jobs and drive economic growth.” He added, “The UK Quantum SuperConnector will help unlock that potential by accelerating the journey from breakthrough science to real-world impact, helping to create the next generation of entrepreneurs and companies across the UK.” The consortium, comprising Cambridge, Imperial, Bristol, Glasgow and Oxford, intends to build upon existing regional strengths in quantum research and entrepreneurship, creating stronger innovation clusters across the country. By supporting the development of significant companies in every region, the SuperConnector aims to re-industrialize the UK as an innovation-led, research-driven economy. The team is currently soliciting expressions of interest from researchers, founders, investors, and organizations that could benefit from quantum technologies.
The UK Quantum SuperConnector will draw on the decade of expertise of the Maxwell Centre in taking research towards impact.
Professor Mete Atatüre, Head of Cambridge’s Cavendish Laboratory
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