Sheffield Quantum Centre

The centre unites leading expertise in quantum technologies at the University of Sheffield, spanning across multiple disciplines and departments. Our capabilities include designing high-quality photonic structures, growing advanced materials, and developing bespoke quantum algorithms. With a focus on industrially relevant challenges, we drive innovation in computation, sensing, and networking.

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• SQC sandpit 2025
• SQC Winter School 2026
• SQC Discussion Forum

Our team

We are a team of quantum physicists, material specialists, engineers, computer scientists, united by the passion of developing quantum solutions. Please see the team member profiles at the university pages.

• Team members

Our solutions

We enable and create solutions in quantum photonics, materials science, and quantum algorithms. Our teams combine experimental and theoretical expertise. We bridge hardware and software to drive quantum innovation.

• Research at SQC

Quantum Photonics

We create innovative quantum photonic systems for applications in computing, imaging, and communication.

• Hardware

Quantum Materials

We design and engineer advanced materials and structures to enable next-generation quantum technologies.

• Fabrication

Quantum Algorithms

We develop bespoke quantum computing algorithms for applications in machine learning, scientific computing, and sensing.

• Software

Collaborate with SQC

We work with academic, industry, and public sector partners to drive quantum technologies.
From joint research to developing new use-cases, we’re open to new ideas and opportunities.
Get in touch to explore how we can collaborate.

• Connect with us

• Bluesky
• LinkedIn
• GitHub
• Email

© Sheffield Quantum Centre. All rights reserved.

• Bluesky
• LinkedIn
• GitHub
• Email

© Sheffield Quantum Centre. All rights reserved.

Quantum Use-Case Sandpit

Place: The Wave - Workroom 3, University of Sheffield (link to the venue map)Dates: Thu 11 Sep - Fri 12 Sep 2025Registration: please follow to Eventbrite pagesProgramme: see below

We are pleased to announce a discussion forum organised by the Sheffield Quantum Centre. This sandpit-style event aims to bring together representatives from industries working on complex challenges across diverse domains, where emerging quantum technologies have the potential to offer impactful solutions.The aim is to identify new and unexpected use-cases where quantum approaches can help overcome computational bottlenecks, improve the accuracy of predictions through precise measurements, or open directions that have not been considered before.Invited participants are from sectors including automotive, aerospace, multisimulation, biopharma, chemistry, defence, and energy. They will be joined by quantum hardware providers, software stack developers, and leading academic researchers at SQC.Our goals are to: 1) identify unique combinations of quantum and photonic tools that could offer disruptive solutions; 2) establish cross-sector collaborations around shared challenges; and 3) define a set of action points to support quantum readiness.The event will also provide an opportunity to learn about the growing quantum ecosystem at the Sheffield Quantum Centre.

Programme:
Day 1, Thu 11 Sep 2025 (link to pdf version):
10:00 - arrivals and coffee
10:30 - Opening remarks from UoS Leadership (Prof. John Derrick, Vice-President and Head of Faculty of Science)
Session 1: "Computational Challenges"
10:40 - "Quantum Algorithms in the Age of AI" by Oleksandr Kyriienko (SQC)
10:50 - "Artemis: Quantum Computer Made in Sheffield" by Tom Lyons (Aegiq)
11:00 - "Quantum Computing for Aerodynamics" by Leigh Lapworth (Rolls Royce)
11:10 - "Quantum Computing for Chemistry and Drug Discovery" by Josh Kirsopp (Fujitsu UK)
11:20 - Question session
11:30 - coffee break
Session 2: "Diverse Quantum Applications"
12:00 - "Quantum Computing for Fluid Dynamics" by Thorsten Grahs (Volkswagen)
12:10 - "Quantum Applications for Defense" by Claudia Clarke (AWE)
12:20 - "Developing Next-Generation Software for Engineering" by Emre Öngüt (Siemens DIS)
12:30 - "Quantum Technologies for Future Communication" by Taofiq Paraiso (Toshiba Europe)
12:40 - Question session
12:50 - lunch
14:00 - Round table 1: Quantum Rotations
Session 3: "Towards Quantum Solutions"
15:00 - "Photonic Quantum Technologies" by Thomas van Els (QuiX Quantum)
15:10 - "Quantum Supervised Learning" by Mattia Fiorentini (Rigetti UK)
15:20 - "Quantum Software and Middleware" by Maciej Koch-Janusz (Haiqu)
15:30 - "Building Large-Scale Quantum Computers" by Lucy Robson (Universal Quantum)
15:40 - Question session
15:50 - coffee break
16:20 - Round table 2: Quantum Deep Dive
17:30 - final discussions
18:00 - day closed
19:30 - event dinner at Ego Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar, Sheffield (link to a map)Programme. Day 2, Fri 12 Sep 2025:
09:30 - meeting at the entrance of Hicks Building [(link to map)] (https://maps.app.goo.gl/u82ptmQza4zHV7VL8)
From there we move to E39 (first floor) meeting lab tour guides and leaving bags.
10:00 - lab tour A & 1-2-1 discussions
10:30 - lab tour B & 1-2-1 discussions
11:00 - lab tour C & 1-2-1 discussions
11:00 - lab tour C & 1-2-1 discussions
13:00 - event closed

List of speakers & participants

Sheffield Quantum Volleyball

Place: Weston Park, Broomhill, Sheffield (map)
Date: Fri 20th June 2025, 16:30 - ...
Meeting point: we start from the Austin Room at the Hicks building and go to the park

Have you ever wondered how quantum information can be imagined?
Worry no more — we are planning a practical class on performing Bloch sphere operations, namely the Sheffield Quantum Volleyball session!The idea is simple: we’ll gather at Weston Park for some amateur-level volleyball (or any other game you bring along) and mix social fun with light quantum discussions. There will be seed-funded drinks but please bring your own favourite beverage and snacks. If you've got fun games (frisbees, cards, weird quantum dice...), feel free to bring them too! Sadly it's not May anymore with that amazing weather, but let's hope we get a good one too. If it betrays us, we will teleport the event to a nearby pub.
See you at the fields!

Quantum Roundtable @SQC

Place: Hicks Building, room K14, University of Sheffield (link to the venue map)
Date: Wed 4th June 2025, 11:30 - 14:30
Registration: please add your dietary requirements in a Google form
Link to the announcement at university pages

We invite you to take part in a discussion on quantum research streams at the University of Sheffield, including current and future plans for the Sheffield Quantum Centre. Some of the questions we would like to address:

These discussions will inform the quantum strategy and future development of SQC. The goals we hope to achieve include: 1) mapping current activities and identifying shared interests; 2) selecting priority areas and the capabilities needed to lead in them; 3) gathering views on funding streams and industrial engagement; 4) resolving logistical questions to facilitate ongoing collaboration.

Quantum + AI interest group

Place: Hicks Building, room K14, University of Sheffield (link to the venue map)
Date: Wed 28th June 2025, 14:00 - 15:00
Registration: please fill in a simple Google form
Link to the announcement at university pages

Have you been interested in quantum technologies for a while, but aren’t sure where to learn more? Are you a quantum computing enthusiast in search of new ideas and collaborations? Or are you a seasoned veteran working in quantum physics or photonics, but keen to explore recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI)?No matter your career stage or level of expertise, we invite you to join the interest group at the intersection of Quantum and AI. Come meet fellow enthusiasts and researchers, discuss the state of the art, learn about recent advances, and plan the next steps on your journey.This event is part of a series of interest groups established and organised by the Centre for Machine Intelligence (CMI) and the Sheffield Quantum Centre (SQC). In the first meeting, we’ll begin with a short presentation on quantum computing and machine learning from the organisers, followed by group discussions and networking. See you there!

Quantum Use-Case Sandpit

Place: The Wave - Workroom 3, University of Sheffield (link to the venue map)Dates: Thu 11 Sep - Fri 12 Sep 2025Registration: please follow to Eventbrite pagesProgramme: see below

We are pleased to announce a discussion forum organised by the Sheffield Quantum Centre. This sandpit-style event aims to bring together representatives from industries working on complex challenges across diverse domains, where emerging quantum technologies have the potential to offer impactful solutions.The aim is to identify new and unexpected use-cases where quantum approaches can help overcome computational bottlenecks, improve the accuracy of predictions through precise measurements, or open directions that have not been considered before.Invited participants are from sectors including automotive, aerospace, multisimulation, biopharma, chemistry, defence, and energy. They will be joined by quantum hardware providers, software stack developers, and leading academic researchers at SQC.Our goals are to: 1) identify unique combinations of quantum and photonic tools that could offer disruptive solutions; 2) establish cross-sector collaborations around shared challenges; and 3) define a set of action points to support quantum readiness.The event will also provide an opportunity to learn about the growing quantum ecosystem at the Sheffield Quantum Centre.

Programme:
Day 1, Thu 11 Sep 2025 (link to pdf version):
10:00 - arrivals and coffee
10:30 - Opening remarks from UoS Leadership (Prof. John Derrick, Vice-President and Head of Faculty of Science)
Session 1: "Computational Challenges"
10:40 - "Quantum Algorithms in the Age of AI" by Oleksandr Kyriienko (SQC)
10:50 - "Artemis: Quantum Computer Made in Sheffield" by Tom Lyons (Aegiq)
11:00 - "Quantum Computing for Aerodynamics" by Leigh Lapworth (Rolls Royce)
11:10 - "Quantum Computing for Chemistry and Drug Discovery" by Josh Kirsopp (Fujitsu UK)
11:20 - Question session
11:30 - coffee break
Session 2: "Diverse Quantum Applications"
12:00 - "Quantum Computing for Fluid Dynamics" by Thorsten Grahs (Volkswagen)
12:10 - "Quantum Applications for Defense" by Claudia Clarke (AWE)
12:20 - "Developing Next-Generation Software for Engineering" by Emre Öngüt (Siemens DIS)
12:30 - "Quantum Technologies for Future Communication" by Taofiq Paraiso (Toshiba Europe)
12:40 - Question session
12:50 - lunch
14:00 - Round table 1: Quantum Rotations
Session 3: "Towards Quantum Solutions"
15:00 - "Photonic Quantum Technologies" by Thomas van Els (QuiX Quantum)
15:10 - "Quantum Supervised Learning" by Mattia Fiorentini (Rigetti UK)
15:20 - "Quantum Software and Middleware" by Maciej Koch-Janusz (Haiqu)
15:30 - "Building Large-Scale Quantum Computers" by Lucy Robson (Universal Quantum)
15:40 - Question session
15:50 - coffee break
16:20 - Round table 2: Quantum Deep Dive
17:30 - final discussions
18:00 - day closed
19:30 - event dinner at Ego Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar, Sheffield (link to a map)Programme. Day 2, Fri 12 Sep 2025:
09:30 - meeting at the entrance of Hicks Building [(link to map)] (https://maps.app.goo.gl/u82ptmQza4zHV7VL8)
From there we move to E39 (first floor) meeting lab tour guides and leaving bags.
10:00 - lab tour A & 1-2-1 discussions
10:30 - lab tour B & 1-2-1 discussions
11:00 - lab tour C & 1-2-1 discussions
11:00 - lab tour C & 1-2-1 discussions
13:00 - event closed

List of speakers & participants

© Sheffield Quantum Centre. All rights reserved.

Winter School on Quantum Optics 2026

Place: The Wave, University of Sheffield (Lecture Theatre 2)
Dates: Tue 27 – Wed 28 January 2026.
More information: school web page
Registration: see details here

The 4th International Winter School on Quantum Optics and Nanophotonics is organised by the Quantum Physics and Technology Group at the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Quantum Centre.This annual event is held with generous sponsorship from CORNERSTONE, Single Quantum, ID Quantique, TOPTICA Photonics, and UKRI.The Winter School will focus on generation, control and detection of quantum light; novel materials for (quantum) nanophotonics; strong light-matter interaction; spins and spin-photon interface in semiconductor quantum dots and solid state defects and other related topics.The school will consist of lectures by leading researchers, industry talks and poster sessions by the school attendees - see details in the Programme here.The school is suitable for all researchers from a PhD student level.

Key dates:

Speakers:

Contacts:

If you have any questions about the registration process, please get in touch with Ms Iuliia Miroshnychenko at [email protected]
or
Sheffield Winter School Organising Committee: Prof Alexander Tartakovskii, Prof Oleksandr Kyriienko, Dr Imad Faruque, Dr Alistair Brash, and Prof Dmitry Krizhanovskii.

© Sheffield Quantum Centre. All rights reserved.

SQC Discussion Forum

Public Debate about Future of Innovation:
“Should we invest in Quantum Technology, Silicon Photonics or both?”

Date: Monday, 26 January 2025.
Time: 14:00 – 17:20
Place: The Wave, University of Sheffield (Lecture Theatre 3)
Registration: please sign up to get a seat at Eventbrite page

This public debate, preceding the SQC Winter School (January 27–28, 2026), invites leading voices in quantum and optical sciences to explore the question of how these technologies will evolve in the 21st century. The discussion contrasts classical technologies based on silicon photonics (mature, precision optical systems) with quantum optical systems that are based on entanglement, superposition, and coherence (sometimes referred to as 'Quantum 2.0'). The goal of this debate is to engage academics, students, and the wider public in an open, reflective, and forward-looking conversation.

Main speakers:

Programme:

14:00 – 14:10: Welcome and Introduction
Chair introduces the format and participants.
14:10 – 15:00: Opening Statements (25 min each)
Sir Peter Knight (Quantum Tech) and Prof. Graham (Silicon Photonics) outline their visions.
Immediate audience questions follow each talk.
15:00 – 15:15: Moderated Exchange
Short crossfire session between the two debaters,
guided by the moderator’s questions and timed for 1.5-min answers.
15:15 – 15:45: break
Coffee and informal discussions among attendees and panelists.
15:45 – 16:20: Team Round: Panel Joins the Debate
Panel members align with either Quantum or Silicon Photonics and share short perspectives.
Teams address thematic questions collaboratively.
16:20 – 17:00: Floor Contributions and Audience Questions
Audience members make short interventions or ask questions.
Debaters respond as 'lead advocates,' supported by panelists.
17:00 – 17:15: Consensus and Reflection
Moderator and speakers identify key takeaways and shared perspectives.
Each debater gives final remarks.
17:15 – 17:20: Closing Remarks
Final words from the chair and invitation to continue conversations informally.

© Sheffield Quantum Centre. All rights reserved.