Walton Institute Launches €4M Initiative to Shape Quantum Innovators

The Walton Institute at South East Technological University has secured a significant €4 million funding initiative to lead the Questing project, aimed at training the next generation of experts in quantum internet technology. Officially launched on November 20, 2025, this project is part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) doctoral network and marks a pivotal step in addressing Europe’s urgent need for skilled professionals in the field of quantum networks.

Questing unites nine prestigious European universities and 13 industry partners, focusing on the complete lifecycle of distributed quantum networks. This initiative is particularly noteworthy as it is the first doctoral network dedicated to this area, reflecting the growing importance of quantum technology in modern communications and computing. Over the next few years, Questing plans to train 15 fully-funded PhD candidates, referred to as ‘Q-System Innovators.’ These candidates will develop a unique interdisciplinary expertise that encompasses quantum technology, communications, computing, and social sciences.

The project responds to a critical skills gap in the industry. Quantum networks are set to transform secure communications and distributed computing. To fully harness this potential, Europe needs a workforce capable of designing, managing, and operating these advanced systems at scale. By developing specialists with comprehensive knowledge from design through to deployment, Questing aims to position Europe at the forefront of the global race to establish the Quantum Internet.

Building a European Standard in Quantum Education

Questing is set to create a harmonised doctoral curriculum that will serve as the European standard for training in quantum network systems. Dr. Indrakshi Dey, Principal Investigator of Questing at Walton Institute, emphasised the initiative’s broader vision: “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.” This project not only enhances the educational framework but also represents a significant boost for the country’s standing in quantum research.

As the project coordinator, Walton Institute will oversee the consortium, thereby enhancing its international profile and attracting top-tier doctoral talent to the south-east region of Ireland. The institute’s extensive experience in leading large-scale EU projects positions it well for this role. Dr. Deirdre Kilbane, Director of Research at Walton Institute, noted: “We are expanding on our existing quantum expertise with the announcement of this Questing project here in Walton Institute. Our team of researchers will be leaders in theoretical modelling and optimisation of advanced quantum networks which will benefit society in untold ways.”

Collaboration with Leading Institutions and Industry

The Questing consortium includes renowned partners such as Trinity College Dublin and the University of Galway’s Irish Centre for High-End Computing. Moreover, the initiative is supported by key industry players including Airbus Defence and Space, British Telecommunications, Telecom Italia, and the Austrian Institute of Technology. This collaboration underscores the importance of integrating academic research with industry expertise to foster innovation in quantum technology.

As Europe navigates the complexities of developing quantum networks, the Questing project stands out as a proactive approach to cultivating the specialists necessary for this rapidly evolving field. By addressing the skills shortage head-on, Walton Institute and its partners are laying the groundwork for a future where quantum communication becomes commonplace, ultimately enhancing the continent’s technological capabilities and competitive edge.