Walton Institute Launches €4 Million Project to Train Quantum Experts

Walton Institute at South East Technological University (SETU) has secured a significant €4 million project to lead the Questing initiative, a doctoral network aimed at training the next generation of experts in quantum internet technology. This innovative project, funded through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), will unite nine European universities and 13 industry partners to tackle critical challenges in the rapidly developing field of quantum technology.

Questing marks a pioneering effort as the first doctoral network focused on the complete lifecycle of distributed quantum networks. Over the next several years, the project plans to train 15 fully-funded PhD candidates, referred to as ‘Q-System Innovators’, who will possess interdisciplinary expertise across quantum technology, communications, computing, and social sciences. This initiative addresses a growing skills gap, essential for the advancement of secure communications and distributed computing within Europe.

As the demand for quantum networks increases, Europe faces the urgent need for a workforce capable of designing, managing, and operating these complex systems. By cultivating specialists who understand quantum systems from inception through deployment, Questing aims to enhance Europe’s competitive position in developing the Quantum Internet.

Building a European Standard

Questing is set to establish a harmonised doctoral curriculum that will serve as the European standard for training in quantum network systems. Dr. Indrakshi Dey, the Principal Investigator of Questing at Walton Institute, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “We are not just offering 15 PhD positions. We are inviting exceptional minds to join an elite, interdisciplinary team backed by industry leaders and world-class infrastructure.”

The project not only represents a substantial boost to the position of SETU in quantum research but also enhances the international profile of the Walton Institute. Dr. Deirdre Kilbane, Director of Research at Walton Institute, remarked on the significance of expanding their existing quantum expertise through this project. “Our team of researchers will be leaders in theoretical modelling and optimisation of advanced quantum networks, which will benefit society in untold ways,” she added.

Collaborative Efforts Across Europe

The Questing consortium includes notable partners such as Trinity College Dublin and the University of Galway’s Irish Centre for High-End Computing. Industry collaborators also play a vital role in this initiative, with participation from leading companies including Airbus Defence and Space, British Telecommunications, Telecom Italia, and the Austrian Institute of Technology.

Through this collaboration, Questing aims to ensure that Europe is prepared to meet the challenges posed by the evolving landscape of quantum technology. By investing in the education of future innovators, the project seeks to secure a bright future for quantum communications and computing.

As the initiative progresses, it not only promises to shape the landscape of quantum research but also highlights the critical importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex technological challenges. The Questing project represents a significant step forward in equipping the next generation with the skills necessary to navigate and lead in this transformative field.