Scientists Present Ideas at Westminster

Aberystwyth University researchers Alex Pitchford and Dan McNulty, attended the Houses of Parliament last month, as part of Westminster’s annual STEM for BRITAIN event. They discussed their studies with politicians and a panel of expert judges as part of a national poster competition featuring dozens of early career researchers from across the UK.

Physics graduate Alex, now a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University’s Department of Mathematics presented his research on quantum computing optimisation. He recently returned from Japan where he has been attending a developer conference for QuTiP, open source software for simulating the dynamics of open quantum systems. He is lead developer for the project’s library.

At the event Alex said: “This is an exciting opportunity for me to explain my scientific ideas to the UK decision makers who invested a lot in quantum technology. It’s also a unique opportunity to visit the House of Commons and meet my MP who has generously offered to give a tour.”

A graduate of Imperial College London, Dan is a Sêr Cymru II Research Fellow* in the Department of Mathematics.

He spoke of his work relating to the strange quantum phenomenon of complementarity, discussing its role in some of the new and exciting quantum technologies revolutionising computing, communication and security.

Dan said: “I'm delighted to present my work at the STEM for BRITAIN event in the House of Commons. This gives me the opportunity to promote my research in a non-academic environment and participate in a project which aims to support early career research scientists from across the UK.”

Stephen Metcalfe MP, Chairman of the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee, said: “This annual competition is an important date in the parliamentary calendar because it gives MPs an opportunity to speak to a wide range of the country’s best young researchers.

At stake are gold, silver and bronze awards, along with £2,000, £1,250 and £750 to the respective winners.

The overall winner will receive the Westminster Wharton Medal.

*Sêr Cymru II is a research fellowship funded by European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government.