The University of Lethbridge is teaming up with two other post-secondary institutions to further study quantum science. (File photo: LNN)

By Justin Goulet/LethbridgeNewsNOW

University of Lethbridge teams with provincial partners to form quantum science network

Jun 15, 2023 | 10:18 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – It’s like something out of a superhero movie. The University of Lethbridge (U of L) is teaming up with two other post-secondary institutions to further study quantum science.

The U of L is forming Quantum Horizons Alberta (QHA) with the University of Alberta (U of A) and University of Calgary (U of C).

The QHA is a $25-million Alberta-wide initiative aimed at expanding our foundational knowledge of quantum science and pursuing transformational research into the potentials of quantum physics.

Dr. Mike Mahon, president and vice-chancellor of the U of L said, “Quantum research is transforming our world by offering solutions to difficult problems much faster and better, opening up new opportunities in areas like security, finance, drug development and studying climate change.”

Mahon added, “Supporting fundamental research today is absolutely vital to achieve major scientific breakthroughs tomorrow.”

'Meet others with shared interests': Volunteers needed for growing Medicine Hat adaptive sports scene

May 02, 2024

IN THE COMMUNITY

Top 5 things to do at the Medicine Hat Public Library in May

May 02, 2024

'I saw a car get crushed': Crestwood students learn about the importance of metal recycling on field trip

May 01, 2024

Quantum science takes a deep dive into the properties and behaviours of the very small or very cold building blocks of the universe. As part of QHA, scientists will research quantum mechanics, a realm where the rules of classical physics do not apply.

Richard Bird, speaking on behalf of the group of donors to the project, said, “We are very excited to be partnering with Alberta’s major research universities to bring this new pan-Alberta initiative into existence and continues on the path of having a globally recognized hub of excellence for foundation quantum research based here in Alberta.”

Bird stated, “Quantum science is an increasingly critical area of study around the world, and we have the opportunity to establish our province as a key source of research and discoveries in a field which promises to be transformational to the human condition.”

Joining Bird as QHA donors are Patrick Daniel, Joanne Cuthbertson and Guy Turcotte. The donor group is anticipated to expand as the project moves along.

The initial operation budget of QHA will be $5 million, spread across three nodes, committed to a minimum of five years. It is supported by the donors, the universities and other partners.

Dr. Ed McCauley, president and vice-chancellor at the U of C said, “These community leaders have stepped forward to invest in foundational quantum discovery because they understand how critical new knowledge is to Alberta’s future. Quantum Horizons Alberta activates our provincial research ecosystem, leveraging the talent across our universities, and enabling us to elevate and expand our capabilities.”

McCauley added, “Creating new knowledge to move society forward is foundational to the purpose of great research universities.”

Alberta is no stranger to research into quantum science. In June of 2022, the province announced the development of Quantum City at the U of C, in a strategic partnership with the U of L and U of A.

Funding through QHA is intended to build quantum science capacity in the province, by supporting existing expertise and attracting new researchers. The goal is to recruit a minimum of eight new quantum research professors to Alberta over the next two years.

Bill Flanagan, president and vice-chancellor at the U of A said, “Quantum Horizons Alberta’s research funding will enable us to recruit more high-calibre research scientists and graduate students in this field.”

He continued, “We have a strong history of discovery and research excellence in Alberta. We can build on this history thanks to the visionary philanthropists involved in QHA.”

Flanagan added, “Advancing a collaborative quantum research network increases the potential for more made-in-Alberta discoveries that will benefit people worldwide.”

More information on this latest initiative is available at the QHA website.