NQCC Industrial DLA Account - University of Edinburgh 2025

The University of Edinburgh will train a new generation of quantum computing specialists through a doctoral training partnership funded by the UK National Quantum Computing Centre. Quantum computers promise to solve problems that are impossible for today's machines, but building them requires people with highly specialised skills. The UK currently faces a shortage of researchers and engineers who understand both quantum physics and practical computing. This programme addresses that gap by funding PhD students to work on real-world quantum computing challenges, from hardware development to algorithm design. If successful, these graduates will enter a growing quantum industry that could transform how we discover new drugs, design more efficient batteries, optimise logistics networks, and strengthen cybersecurity. Quantum computers may also improve financial modelling and materials science. The training programme ensures the UK has the skilled workforce needed to lead in this emerging technology, rather than importing expertise from abroad. This is a skills investment, not a fundamental science project—the science already exists; what is missing are the people who can turn it into working machines and useful applications.