As Canada strengthens its position as a global leader in quantum technologies, quantum sensing has emerged as a game-changer across a wide range of industries. Translating 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 R&D.

The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) are pleased to provide over $11 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. Further, it effectively 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 combining their respective strengths 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 is providing funding to the Canadian SMEs participating in the projects through its Collaborative Science, Technology, and Innovation Program.

Quantum sensors can deliver precision and sensitivity that are orders of magnitude beyond conventional technologies in use today. 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.

For more information about the projects supported by this joint call for proposals, please visit the Alliance funding decisions webpage.