Equal1 Launches Inaugural Quantum Solutions for the Environment Challenge for Third Level Students Across Ireland
Equal1, a quantum computing start-up and a University College Dublin (UCD) spin-out company, has today announced the launch of the inaugural ‘Quantum Solutions for the Environment Challenge’ and invites third-level students across the island of Ireland to explore the transformative potential of quantum technologies to address environmental challenges.
The challenge has been announced today in honour of the 60th anniversary of the publication in a Journal called Physics of John Stewart Bell's groundbreaking work on Bell's Inequality.
As a tribute to Bell, a Belfast-born physicist whose work fundamentally reshaped our understanding of quantum mechanics, the challenge 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 may explore how quantum science can address pressing environmental issues.
Professor Jeremy Simpson, Principal, UCD College of Science said, “As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Bell’s Inequality, we're excited to partner with Equal1, Ireland’s only quantum computing start-up, and a UCD spin-out, 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.”
Elena Blokhina, Chief Scientific Officer, Equal1 said, “Ensuring our emerging quantum industry has a talent pipeline of the best minds working on commercialising quantum is 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.”
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. Marking 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.
Guidelines
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.
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.
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 20 November 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’ Quantum Business Innovation and Growth (qBIG) prize earlier this year. 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, organisation, and effectiveness in communicating ideas.
Anne Crean, Head of Science and Innovation at the Institute of Physics (IOP) said, “IOP commends Equal1 for honouring 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.”
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.
ENDS
4 November 2024
For further information contact Micéal Whelan, Communications and Media Relations Manager, UCD Research and Innovation, NovaUCD e: miceal.whelan@ucd.ie