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The development of Molecular Beam Epitaxial (MBE) growth techniques for self-assembled quantum dots at Cambridge University has led to the creation of electrically driven, compact single-photon and entangled-photon sources, and their demonstration in quantum key distribution (QKD) systems. This highly-cited work has led to significant recent investment in R&D in this area by Toshiba, one of the world's leading microelectronics companies, influencing company policy to the highest levels. It has stimulated world-wide interest in quantum information technology, in government institutions and companies from start-ups and SMEs to multinationals.
The research on the use of single source precursors in quantum dot synthesis undertaken by Professor Paul O'Brien in the Department of Chemistry at Imperial College between 1994 and 1999 resulted in papers and a patent which led to the formation of Nanoco Group PLC, currently a world-leader in the supply of quantum dots (QDs). Quantum dots have applications in backlighting for LCD displays, LED general lighting and thin film solar cells. Nanoco was listed on AIM on the London Stock Exchange in 2009 and by January 2013 Nanoco employed 78 people, had annual revenue of £3 million, and had signed agreements with several major companies in the US and Japan including Dow Chemical, Osram and Tokyo Electron.
This study describes two atomistic methods that have been used to explain better the behaviour and improve performance of materials. The research at Loughborough University from 2006-2013 has led to improved awareness and understanding in the areas of thin film growth and in irradiated structural materials for nuclear power. It has also led to changes in the operational models that Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) use. One of the algorithms developed has been incorporated into standard quantum chemistry packages, due to its increased accuracy and efficiency. The outcomes of the research have also contributed to changing UK government policy with regards to working with India in the area of nuclear research.
The research underpinning Stephen Hawking's books, TV appearances and lectures has shaped public attitudes towards frontier research in cosmology. It attracts large audiences to learn about his research, and he is the most well-known scientist in the world. Highlights include the publication of his 2010 popular-science book The Grand Design, and the Discovery Channel series Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking. Further evidence of the impact of Hawking's research was the award of the 2009 Presidential Medal of Freedom (America's highest civilian honour) and his role as narrator in the 2012 Paralympic Opening Ceremony watched by over 11M UK viewers.
Thousands of exhibition visitors, public lecture-goers, readers, school students and TV viewers have been encouraged to explore areas of number theory and mathematical physics as a result of public engagement initiatives in four countries by University of Bristol academics. Lay people's encounters with the Bristol scientists have also changed their view of mathematics, mathematicians and the nature of their work.
Audiences have been reached through the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition in 2011, a science fair in 2012, an award-winning Japanese TV documentary made in 2009, popular lectures given between 2008 and 2013 and contributions to popular science books.
Research on quantum mechanics, chaos and the Riemann Hypothesis is very appealing to members of the general public who have an interest in popular science. Bristol research ties these areas together. Its dissemination through various media has captured public attention internationally and inspired non-mathematicians to consider the mysteries addressed by mathematical research.
Surrey's Photonics Group has played a pivotal role in understanding and developing compound semiconductors for use in photonic devices. The strained-layer quantum well technology proposed and developed in their research is now incorporated in the vast majority of CD, DVD and blu-ray systems, in telecommunications and the internet, in computer mice, and in LEDs for solid-state lighting. Strained-layer quantum well lasers are manufactured by industry in their millions annually with a market value estimated in 2009 to be €15bn. Compared to the alternatives; these lasers offer greater efficiency, which has opened up new applications.
The Group's research has expanded to develop semiconductors for use in energy generation and combatting climate change, and in novel photovoltaics, low energy internet communications, and greenhouse gas detection. The research has led to engagement with the UK government's energy minister and has stimulated public discussion around the world.