University of Hong Kong-University of Oxford partnership in Quantum information and computation

The quantum groups of the Computer Science Departments at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and the University of Oxford recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enter into partnership in quantum information and computation. Professor Bob Coeckeattended an MoU signing ceremony which was held in January at HKU.

The MoU consolidates a long-standing collaboration between the Oxford Quantum Group and the Quantum Information, Foundations, and Technologies Group at HKU to establish an ‘HKU-Oxford Joint Lab for Quantum Information and Computation’. In addition, the collaboration will include the exchange of mutual research visits, joint participation in grant applications, and joint supervision of PhD students in order to facilitate the exchange of talents between the two partner groups and the training of young researchers in the growing area of quantum information and computation.

Hlér Kristjánsson, PhD Student at the University of Oxford, said: ‘The HKU-Oxford collaboration provides a unique opportunity for students at both universities to be immersed in the vibrant academic community and traditions in the University of Oxford, whilst also experiencing the innovative research and cosmopolitan city life in Hong Kong.’

Furthermore, the HKU and Oxford quantum groups have recently been awarded a grant from the John Templeton Foundation, which provides them with funding to hire joint postdoctoral fellows. With the support of the grant, a workshop on the intersection between quantum information and quantum gravity was held in the week of January 13 to 17, 2020 in Hong Kong.