January 27, 2025 -- The UK-Canada quantum for science research collaboration today announces the winners of this grant funding opportunity.

This initiative is run jointly by:

• UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), through the International Science Partnerships Fund
• Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), through the UKRI-NSERC collaborative agreement

The allocation of £4 million from the UK and $4.2 million from Canada (totalling £6.5 million) in grant funding will support 10 innovative and collaborative research projects.

The projects will involve university researchers in both countries to advance research in quantum communications and quantum sensing and detection.

A diverse range of disciplines

The selected projects span a diverse range of quantum disciplines, including:

• quantum internet
• quantum communication security
• quantum sensors for assessing brain disorders

Each project has been selected for its potential to support key elements and specific missions of Canada’s national quantum strategy and the UK national quantum strategy.

The 10 successful projects were selected through a rigorous peer-review process, ensuring that only the most promising and impactful research proposals received funding.

The grant recipients will have the opportunity to work closely with their international counterparts, sharing knowledge and resources to achieve their collective research goals.

A strong international partnership

This joint funding initiative is part of the ongoing partnership between UKRI and NSERC to:

• promote the excellence in science and innovation
• support cutting-edge research and training
• share quantum expertise between UK and Canadian research communities

Both organisations are committed to supporting high-quality research that addresses global challenges and drives economic growth.

UK Science Minister Lord Vallance said:

"The ten university-led partnerships receiving grants today are proof of the valuable, long-lasting collaboration between the UK and Canada on R&D.

Working together on quantum research like this, with strong commercial potential, can support economic growth in both our countries."

Pioneering research and innovation

Professor Dame Ottoline Leyser, Chief Executive of UKRI, commented:

"This partnership is exemplary of the ways in which UK-Canada collaboration continues to support pioneering research and innovation.

By combining and sharing our resources and expertise, this funding will enable researchers to use quantum technology to develop innovative solutions that have huge potential across societies and economies globally."

Advancing cutting-edge research

Professor Alejandro Adem, NSERC President, remarked:

"NSERC is proud to support the UK-Canada Quantum for Science Research Collaboration, advancing cutting-edge research in quantum technologies.

This initiative highlights the importance of international partnerships in driving scientific innovation and supporting Canada’s National Quantum Strategy."