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Welcome to the BRAQ Lab — the Lancaster Brain-Inspired Autonomous and Quantum Intelligence Lab.
BRAQ Lab is a multidisciplinary research hub at the forefront of Novel Computing, where neuroscience, quantum theory, and secure autonomy converge to shape the future of automated and intelligent systems. We lead cutting-edge research in Cognitive AI, Quantum Neuromorphic Computing, and Post-Quantum Security, with high-impact applications in Secure and Distributed Autonomous Systems, Medical AI, and Earth Observation AI. Our mission is to engineer next-generation technologies that are not only computationally powerful, but also transparent, ethically grounded, privacy-preserving, and resilient to emerging cyber threats. BRAQ Lab offers a fertile ground for breakthrough innovation and collaborative research, creating scalable, real-world solutions for wellbeing, sustainability, and national security.
We invite collaborations with academic groups, PhD and post-doctoral researchers, and industry partners who share our vision of blending theoretical rigour with practical impact.

Pioneering Novel Computing for the Future of AI
Our research encompasses several high-impact areas of novel computing:

  • Quantum and Post-Quantum Intelligence: We explore the intersection of quantum computing and AI, developing quantum neural network architectures, efficient quantum encoding techniques, and hybrid quantum-classical models. Our team is also engaged in evaluating the robustness of post-quantum cryptographic schemes using machine learning and adversarial analysis.
  • Brain-Inspired and Neural Computing: Our researchers apply cutting-edge AI to brain science, focusing on explainable and trustworthy models that aid in understanding neurological development and disorders. We build AI systems capable of estimating brain age, detecting neurodegenerative patterns, and modelling complex neural dynamics—supporting future applications in digital health and neuroscience.
  • Trust, Privacy and Secure AI: BRAQ Lab is committed to designing AI systems that are secure, privacy-preserving, and ethically sound. Our work includes the development of privacy-aware biometric systems, trust models for decentralized networks, and AI frameworks that embed fairness, accountability, and explainability into core algorithms.
  • Human-Centred and Ethical AI: We take a principled approach to AI development, ensuring that our models are transparent, inclusive, and aligned with human values. Our team works on building interpretable systems for sensitive domains such as healthcare and public services, and engages with the broader community on responsible AI governance.
  • Embodied Intelligence, Robotics and Digital Twins: We develop AI technologies for physical and simulated environments, including human–robot interaction, biometric identity verification, and synthetic data generation. Our research supports real-world deployments in smart systems, immersive environments, and interactive robotics.
  • AI for Health, Finance and Environment: We work closely with domain experts to deliver practical AI solutions in areas such as medical imaging, financial anomaly detection, and environmental monitoring. Our models are designed to be robust, scalable, and ready for deployment in mission-critical settings.
  • Intelligent Autonomous Systems: We push the frontier of autonomy with next-generation AI-powered robots, human-centred vehicles, and smart drones. Our work integrates 5G/6G connectivity and transparent human-AI collaboration to build autonomous systems capable of intelligent decision-making in complex, high-stakes environments—from disaster response to remote exploration.

Driving Innovation and Strategic Impact

Through interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge projects, the Lancaster BRAQ Lab is laying the groundwork for next-generation AI solutions that redefine computational intelligence, privacy, and security. Our commitment to the field of Novel Computing positions us as a global leader, presenting forward-looking investment opportunities for industry partners seeking to drive meaningful impact through transformative, ethical, and high-impact technology.

Why Collaborate with BRAQ Lab?

  • Multidisciplinary expertise spanning AI, quantum computing, cybersecurity, and applied science
  • Strong infrastructure, including access to quantum simulators, high-performance computing, and robotics labs
  • Proven experience in delivering high-impact research and innovation in partnership with academia, industry, and healthcare
  • Commitment to responsible innovation and real-world application

To collaborate or learn more, please contact Prof. Richard Jiang at r.jiang2@lancaster.ac.uk.