Quantum Electronics Collaboration’s Nanotechnology Research Bolstered by Oxford Instruments Involvement

Oxford Instruments Superconductivity has joined a collaboration in quantum nanotechnology that will drive research and development of quantum scale computers and ultimately leading to true quantum computers. Oxford Instruments will supply the cryogenic consultancy and an ultra low temperature (ULT) system to the Cryogenic Instrumentation for Quantum Electronics Collaboration. This will enable extremely low temperature environments, essential for research into quantum electronics, quantum computing and quantum nanotechnology.

The overall aim of the collaboration, which is headed by Professor Briggs of Oxford University, is to provide the technological infrastructure that will give scientists and industries a head start in the development of new kinds of nanotechnology and its commercial exploitation. ‘This project brings together a unique combination of UK talent and expertise in quantum information theory,’ said Professor Briggs. ‘Together we can exploit advances in solid state quantum-scale computing, putting us at the forefront If emerging quantum electronics technologies. Furthermore, the control circuitry will benefit anyone performing cryogenic electric measurements, from physics experiments to space applications.’

The collaboration also includes Cambridge University, Hitachi Europe Ltd and the CCLRC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory It is supported by a £2 million fund from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

Posted April 2003