Canada continues to solidify its position as a global leader in quantum technologies, with quantum sensing emerging as a transformative force across multiple industries.
Bringing quantum sensing technologies from the laboratory to real-world adoption requires partnerships between Canadian university researchers, Canadian small- or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and other organizations from the private, public, or not-for-profit sectors, including Canadian federal departments or organizations that perform research and development (R&D).
The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) are investing over CA$11 million (approximately $7.6 million) in funding to support six collaborative research projects on quantum sensing technologies.
This joint initiative aims to advance one of the National Quantum Strategy’s (NQS) missions: to enable the Government of Canada and key industries to be developers and early adopters of new quantum sensing technologies. It also supports the NQS’ three pillars: research to develop better solutions, talent development to build a world-leading workforce, and commercialization to translate research into commercial outcomes.
NSERC and the NRC are joining forces to support each of the six projects. NSERC is providing funding to the university research teams through its Alliance Quantum grants, while the NRC scientists will actively participate in the projects through the NRC’s Internet of Things: Quantum Sensors Challenge program.
In addition, the NRC will provide funding to Canadian SMEs participating in projects through its Collaborative Science, Technology, and Innovation Program.
Quantum sensors offer unprecedented precision, far surpassing conventional technologies. The supported projects are dedicated to moving quantum sensing toward practical applications in important areas for Canada, such as the environment, healthcare, manufacturing, natural resources, navigation, safety and security.
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