Through collaboration and cutting-edge technology, the Critical Technologies Accelerator (CTA) is revolutionising the semiconductor, photonics, and quantum sectors—accelerating industry growth, fostering innovation, and supporting emerging applications across multiple fields, including computing, communications, space, fintech, healthcare, and defence.
The CTA bridges the gap between academia and industry, engaging in and taking over complex technology development requirements for local companies. Backed by £3.4 million from the Innovation Accelerator programme, the initiative facilitates collaboration between the University of Glasgow and strategic partners, including Toshiba Quantum Technology, BT Group, Leonardo, Sivers Photonics, and Vector Photonics.
Funding has enabled the CTA to generate significant returns on investment through job creation, industry partnerships, and private-sector R&D investment, solidifying its role as a driver of technological advancement in Scotland and the UK.
Inspiration
CTA’s mission is to transform the technology sector by addressing key challenges:
- Strengthening Glasgow City Region as a Centre of Excellence in photonics and solid-state lasers
- Supporting cross-sector R&D and collaboration
- Enhancing industry capabilities in AI, quantum technology, robotics, and advanced materials
- Building long-term investment platforms for sustainable growth
- By fostering cross-supply chain collaboration and developing proof-of-concept photonic systems, CTA is laying the foundation for a world-leading manufacturing infrastructure in Scotland and beyond.
Innovation and Impact
The CTA is delivering significant economic and technological benefits:
- 20 jobs created and 10 safeguarded as a direct result of the project
- 10 companies supported across the UK, including 2 startups in Glasgow
- £3 million in VC funding raised by Vector Photonics as a direct outcome of CTA collaboration
- Engagement with 31 industry partners, fostering collaboration and commercialisation
Technology Advancements
Developing High-Quality Gallium Nitride (GaN) for Lasers
CTA is pioneering the development of high-quality GaN-based semiconductor lasers, addressing challenges with current Indium Phosphide (InP) and Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) materials. These advancements are expected to drive business opportunities in space and communications over the next 2-4 years, while positioning GaN-based solutions for longer-term growth in the next 3-6 years. The market for these technologies is projected to grow from £3.5 billion in 2021 to £12 billion by 2031.
Laser Technology for Integrated Quantum Communications
CTA is accelerating the development of cost-effective laser light sources for secure quantum communications, working to establish a complete supply chain and manufacturing capability for these devices in Scotland.
PCSEL-Based Laser Systems
CTA has collaborated with Vector Photonics to advance PCSEL semiconductor laser technology. By developing innovative fabrication techniques, CTA has enhanced performance, leading to a patent filing. This collaboration helped Vector Photonics secure £3 million in funding in 2024.
Laser Sources for Quantum Security Systems
As the UK seeks alternatives to satellite-based security, CTA is developing fabrication processes for scalable production of quantum-secure laser systems. Partnering with Sivers Photonics and Alter Technologies, CTA has demonstrated modular manufacturing processes that enhance flexibility and cost-effectiveness, leading to direct collaboration with NPL for novel applications.
Low-Loss, Low-Power Light Transmission Systems on a Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC)
CTA is developing high-speed, low-power photonic integrated circuits to reduce telecom network costs and support video-rate intelligence and surveillance applications. Collaborations with BT and Leonardo have accelerated the technology, with BT exploring CTA partnerships to reduce network energy consumption. Leonardo has invested £50,000 to advance directional transmission technologies, matched by an Impact Accelerator Award, with plans for further multi-million-pound engagement.
Superconducting Quantum Circuits: Material and Process Development
CTA is laying the groundwork for a world-leading superconducting quantum technology foundry, essential for quantum computing. Partnering with SEEQC, CTA has successfully demonstrated novel Niobium-based qubit devices and is now in advanced stages of planning a spinout company to commercialise this innovation.
Conclusion
The Critical Technologies Accelerator has demonstrated a significant return on investment, positively impacting economic growth, job creation, and technological innovation. By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, CTA is pioneering advancements in semiconductor, photonics, and quantum technologies, reinforcing Glasgow and the UK as global leaders in next-generation technology development.