Equal1, one of the world’s leading silicon quantum computing companies, has announced the launch of its inaugural student competition, The Quantum Solutions for the Environment Challenge, in honor of the 60th anniversary of John Stewart Bell’s groundbreaking work on Bell’s Inequality.
The competition invites students across the entire island of Ireland to explore the transformative potential of quantum technologies to address environmental challenges.
About the competition:
As a tribute to Bell, a Belfast-born physicist whose work fundamentally reshaped our understanding of quantum mechanics, this competition aims to inspire the next generation of Irish scientists, engineers and software developers to build on his legacy.
Third-level students from any science, engineering or software course are invited to investigate how quantum principles can be applied to benefit the environment.
From optimising renewable energy systems to innovating sustainable materials and conservation solutions, students are encouraged to explore how quantum science can address pressing environmental issues.
Why Bell’s legacy matters today:
Bell’s 1964 paper on quantum entanglement and Bell’s Inequality became a foundation for quantum science, which has since led to the development of quantum computing and quantum technologies with vast potential to shape our future.
As we mark the 60th anniversary of this iconic breakthrough, students will have a unique opportunity to connect Bell’s theoretical work to practical applications, demonstrating how quantum science can address global environmental challenges.
Competition guidelines:
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Select an environmental issue: Choose a specific environmental issue that can benefit from quantum applications. Examples include quantum simulations for climate modelling, using quantum algorithms for optimising renewable energy systems, or exploring quantum chemistry for sustainable material design.
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Demonstrate quantum potential: Describe how quantum technologies could address the issue, either by reducing environmental impact, enhancing existing processes, or proposing a novel solution. This can be theoretical or simulated, demonstrating an understanding of quantum principles.
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Showcase practical benefits: Explain the potential benefits and impacts on the environment, outlining a roadmap to bring the concept closer to real-world application.
Eligibility:
Open to all third-level students on the island of Ireland enrolled in any third-level STEM course. Teams may consist of up to four members. Further details will be available on November 20, 2024, via Equal1’s website.
Awards:
Winning teams will receive cash prizes, with a total of €10,000 across teams and individuals. This cash award is made possible due to Equal1’s success in the Institute of Physics qBIG prize earlier in 2024.
As well as cash prizes, the winners will receive mentorship opportunities with leaders in quantum and environmental science, and a chance to present their solutions at a symposium dedicated to Bell’s anniversary. Top projects may be featured in both quantum and environmental publications.
Judging Criteria:
Projects will be assessed on:
Innovation: Originality of the idea and application of quantum concepts.
Environmental Impact: Potential to positively impact environmental challenges.
Feasibility: Practicality and clarity in explaining how the solution could be implemented.
Presentation: Clarity, organization, and effectiveness in communicating ideas.
Celebrate John Stewart Bell’s transformative contributions to science and join the Quantum Solutions for the Environment Challenge to continue his legacy by shaping a sustainable future through quantum innovation!
Prof. Chris Exton, Professor of Computer Science and Director of UL’s Immersive Software Engineering programme commented:
“Bell’s work was foundational and ambitious. Quantum computing is the future. Our students need to be exposed to quantum from the very start of their education to make sure they are ready to lead further development in the field in a few years’ time. This prize is a great step in that direction.”
Prof. Jeremy Simpson, Dean of the College of Science, University College Dublin said:
“As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Bell’s Inequality, we’re excited to partner with Equal1, Ireland’s only Quantum Computing startup, and a UCD spinout, on this inaugural Quantum Solutions for the Environment Challenge. John Bell’s work challenges us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in quantum mechanics. We would encourage UCD students to work with our Centre for Quantum Engineering, Science, and Technology (C-QuEST) to take this unique opportunity to connect Bell’s work to practical applications, as we seek to encourage a new generation of innovators as they develop quantum-inspired solutions to complex environmental issues.”
Prof. Mauro Paternostro, School of Mathematics and Physics, Queen’s University Belfast said:
“John S Bell was a giant of modern quantum physics. His work paved the way to developments that even Bell himself did not foresee, such as the rise of quantum-enhanced technologies, which hold the promises to revolutionise ICT. His legacy is enormous, and it is fantastic to see the implications of his work permeating into and possibly offering solutions to sustainability problems. This award is a great testimony of the far-reaching implications of fundamental research.”
Prof. John Goold, Professor in Physics, Trinity College Dublin said:
“Setting challenge based problems for quantum technologies is a great way to explore the possibilities that this new class of technologies offer. It is likely that the most impactful applications will come from left of field ideas and what better way to stimulate this mode of thinking than engaging with our diverse student body.”
Prof. Alix McCollam, SALI Professor of Quantum Technology, University College Cork said:
“At University College Cork we are thrilled to support Equal1’s Quantum Solutions for the Environment Challenge, celebrating John Bell’s legacy by inspiring students to think about how quantum technologies can be harnessed for sustainability. We see this challenge as a unique opportunity for students to apply creative ideas to today’s environmental challenges and take a lead in shaping a sustainable future powered by quantum innovation.”
Anne Crean, Head of Science and Innovation at the Institute of Physics (IOP) said:
“IOP commends Equal1 for honoring the 60th anniversary of John Stewart Bell’s groundbreaking work on Bell’s Inequality. We look forward to hearing inspiring ideas from students across Ireland on how quantum could address pressing environmental issues – and profiling some great stories about winners as part of IOP celebrations in the 2025 international year of quantum.”
Elena Blokhina, Chief Scientific Officer, Equal1 added:
“Ensuring our emerging quantum industry has a talent pipeline of the best minds working on commercializing quantum is a major challenge. Equal1 is inspired by the fact that a quantum physicist born in Belfast had such an impact and we hope that this competition might inspire the next generation of scientists to drive the quantum industry forward”
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