Oxford University is joining a multi-million-pound Government initiative with four other leading UK universities to help turn world-class quantum research into commercial ventures.
The SuperConnector, a partnership led by Imperial College London with the universities of Bristol, Cambridge, Glasgow and Oxford, will establish a national Quantum Commercialisation Skills Centre, which will receive £12 million in funding from the research funding body, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
The aim is to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and commercial success, strengthen entrepreneurship, bring cutting-edge quantum technology to market and deliver real world impact. This will tackle one of the major barriers to companies starting and scaling on British shores.
In a highly distinctive link, Oxford Saïd is able to work strategically with cutting-edge quantum experts from the Oxford Department of Physics.
Director of the Oxford Quantum Institute, Professor Ian Walmsley, explained: ‘I’m very pleased Oxford’s prominence in both quantum science and technologies and in entrepreneurship are now joined to deliver a major programme for the UK.
'At the Oxford Quantum Institute we look forward to working with colleagues in Said Business School to support the next generation of spin-outs in the quantum sector.’
Maria Zubeldia, Executive Director of the Oxford Saïd Entrepreneurship Centre and one of five co-directors of the initiative, said: ‘I'm delighted to be working alongside colleagues from across the consortium to help unlock the commercial potential of quantum research. We know from our experience at Oxford Saïd that entrepreneurial skills and connections are essential to translating scientific discoveries into real-world impact.
'The SuperConnector offers an exciting opportunity to support researchers across the UK in developing the confidence, capabilities and networks to bring their innovations to market.’
Through training, accelerators and collaboration with investors and industry, the SuperConnector will support the development of quantum ventures and applications across sectors including healthcare, finance, aerospace and defence.
Saïd Business School and Oxford Saïd Entrepreneurship Centre bring extensive experience in supporting researchers to develop the entrepreneurial and commercialisation skills needed to translate pioneering research into economic and societal impact.
Open to researchers and innovators across the UK, the SuperConnector will strengthen connections between universities, entrepreneurs, investors and industry, supporting the growth of the UK's quantum innovation ecosystem.
Image courtesy of Said Business School.