WACQT - Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology Newsletter #17, 2025 |
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Dear Swedish Friends of Quantum Technology, The first two months as director have been very stimulating, not at least because of all the QT activity both within WACQT as well as from the Swedish government and in the world. From a WACQT perspective, we approach the end of Lena Gustafsson’s very successful chairmanship. On the first of July, Pontus de Laval will take over as chairman of the WACQT board. Although it is sad that Lena leaves, knowing that Pontus has served on the WACQT board since the start, as well his experience as chairman of the WASP board and involvement in the WALP program, it is reassuring that WACQT remains in very experienced and competent hands. From the Swedish perspective, the proposed QT activities in the governments research bill has the potential to equal the WACQT funding, when fully ramped up in 2028. This is very good news for quantum technology in Sweden! Personally, I enjoy very much that Microsoft is pushing forward towards a Majorana based quantum computer, and I really look forward to some hard scientific evidence of those very hard to produce states! Don’t miss the opportunity to interact with the Swedish QT-interested industry at our WACQT Industry workshop at Chalmers on the 24th of April, as well as the IQT Nordics 20-22nd of May. Then we all look forward to the yearly WACQT review meeting 13-15th of May. This is the place to meet everyone in WACQT!
Göran Johansson, director of WACQT
| | | | | | | | | International year of Quantum Science and Technology
| A global initiative declared by the United Nations to celebrate 100 years since the development of quantum mechanics. The year 2025 is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of quantum science and its applications through various events and activities worldwide. Initiatives by WACQT researchers: | | | | | | | |
The new quantum refrigerator autonomously cools qubits, enhancing quantum computer reliability. Fabricated at Myfab Chalmers. Photo Lovisa Håkansson |
Quantum fridge enables reliable quantum computers
| Quantum computers require extreme cooling to perform reliable calculations. One of the challenges preventing quantum computers from entering society is the difficulty of freezing the qubits to temperatures close to absolute zero. Now, researchers at Chalmers and the University of Maryland, USA, have engineered a new type of refrigerator that can autonomously cool superconducting qubits to record low temperatures, paving the way for more reliable quantum computation. | | | | |
Experimental setup measuring quantum states of photoelectrons.
Photo: Charlotta Carlberg Bärg |
First measurement of quantum states in photoelectrons
| Researchers at Lund University have measured the quantum state of photoelectrons for the first time. Using a novel technique with ultrashort high-energy light pulses and laser pulses, they captured 3D representations of the quantum states of electrons from helium and argon atoms, advancing our understanding of quantum mechanics. | | | | |
PhD students Joakim Argillander and Daniel Spegel-Lexne developed a set-up linking complementarity and information theory. Photo: Magnus Johansson |
A connection between quantum theory and information theory proved
| With the help of a new experiment, researchers at Linköping University, among others, have succeeded in confirming a ten-year-old theoretical study, which connects one of the most fundamental aspects of quantum mechanics – the complementarity principle – with information theory. Their study has been published in the journal Science Advances and provides a piece of the puzzle for understanding future quantum communication, metrology, and cryptography. | | | | |
Pilot facility for quantum communication
| A pilot quantum communications facility has been inaugurated at KTH Royal Institute of Technology. It will serve as Sweden's launching platform for the new EU quantum communications network. The pilot facility will be open to companies, authorities and organisations, who will be able to test and develop new products and services or assess the potential impact on their working methods and communication. Led by Katia Gallo, head of the quantum communication excellence pillar at WACQT. | | | | | New connection enhances quantum computing
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Researchers at Chalmers and the University of Tokyo have shown a connection between two types of resources for quantum computation using a method called GKP encoding. These findings help us better understand quantum computing and improve future technologies. Key points:
Found a new way to measure the "magic" of quantum states.
This measure helps us understand how long it takes to simulate quantum systems on classical computers.
Discovered that certain quantum operations need special non-Gaussian operations, even with perfect encoding. | | | | |
Nordic workshop at Chalmers
| Nordic researchers gather for discussions on the latest advancements in continuous-variable quantum information. Led by Tahereh Abad and Giulia Ferrini, PI for WACQT's research pillar "Quantum Computing and Simulation, Theory". A two day event with talks, a poster session focused on various topics in quantum computing and quantum information and a lab tour. The workshop was sponsored by the WACQT Guest reseacher programme (GRP). | | | | | | | From March, Mizanur Rahaman will join WACQT. His latest position was at École Normale Supérieure de Lyon where he worked as a Marie Skłodowska-Curie fellow. Mizanur's research is broadly based on the mathematical foundations of Quantum Information Theory (QIT) and focuses on applying ideas from operator algebras and functional analysis to explore fundamental concepts in quantum theory such as quantum nonlocality, entanglement theory, Shannon theory, and Quantum Markov Semigroups. At WACQT, Mizanur will focus on developing novel mathematical tools necessary for quantum secure communication. This involves finding efficient methods and algorithms to address the fundamental issues currently present in quantum information processing tasks. Welcome Mizanur! | | | | | | | Armin Tavakoli, Assistant Professor at Lund University, has been awarded the New Journal of Physics (NJP) Early Career Award 2024 for his outstanding contributions to quantum information science. Tavakoli's research explores fundamental questions in quantum mechanics and has practical implications for quantum technologies, such as quantum computing and cryptography. His work challenges conventional views on quantum states and introduces new frameworks for measuring quantum dimensionality, enhancing our understanding of quantum mechanics and its applications. Congrats Armin! | | | | | | | | | WACQT is committed to promoting career development, diversity and gender equality through networking and supporting activities. | | | | |
Open House at Science Festival
| WACQT hosted an open house as part of the Science Festival. Ninety curious guests got an in-depth dive into the quantum world, with high school students attending in the afternoon and the general public in the evening. The event introduced the world of quantum technology, featuring interactive activities, demonstrations, and presentations by researchers. The goal was to inspire young minds and provide a glimpse into this exciting field. | | | | |
Full house at Chalmersdagen
| Chalmersdagen is an annual event showcasing the university's cutting-edge research and facilities.
This year, WACQT welcomed high school students for a guided tour of quantum technology facilities. They explored the latest advancements in quantum research, visited state-of-the-art labs, and met leading researchers.
The event included lab visits and presentations on the future of quantum technology, providing insights into its applications and challenges. | | | | | | | | |
WACQT Industry Workshop 2024.
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WACQT Industry Workshop - April 24
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Connect with leading experts in quantum technology, gain access to the latest research and developments, understand quantum technology applications, engage with top academic talent, and participate in collaborative projects. This event brings together companies, researchers, and other interested parties for networking and knowledge sharing.
Registration opens by the end of March. | | | | |
Poddcasts with WACQT researchers
| - Dagens Industri: Den nya ekonomin - David Haviland (KTH), Göran Johansson (Chalmers)
The podcast explores the development of quantum technology and its potential to disrupt various industries, such as the internet, pharmaceuticals, and logistics. The episode features insights from two of Sweden's leading quantum researchers.
- Montrosepodden: Allt du behöver veta om glödheta kvantdatorer!
Göran Johansson discusses the essentials of quantum computers. He explains key concepts, technological advancements, and potential future applications of this cutting-edge technology.
| | | | | | WACQT Quantum Technology Testbed | The testbed celebrates its first year! From an empty meeting room, we have now developed a state-of-the-art quantum lab, offering all the services that both industry and researchers can expect. Soon, we hope to test the final piece of the testbed: our quantum demonstrator. Initially on a smaller scale, before later upgrading to a full 25 qubits. An exciting step forward!
If you are curious to learn more about WACQT's quantum testbed, don't hesitate to get in touch! Many of the testbed's offerings are free for WACQT partners. | | | | | GrantsWALP - Deadline: April 14
KAW Proof of Concept Grants in AI or Quantum technologies
The purpose is to bridge the gap between academic research and innovations in Autonomous Systems and AI, or in Quantum Technologies. The grant gives researchers the opportunity to develop their early-stage discoveries towards validated methods, products, or processes.
Who can apply?
Applicants must be employed at a Swedish University, be grant holders in any of KAWs strategic initiatives or have/have had grants from the Wallenberg Foundations. Read more
Q&A on who is eligible to apply from WACQT. | | | | | Key to future quantum computersA research team at Stockholm University discovered that Fibonacci parafermions can form in two-dimensional materials, which could be used to develop stable platforms for future quantum computers. Read more | | | | | Quantum technologies policy OECD early 2025 released a policy primer and a policy brief about quantum technology for a digital economy. These give an overview of the area and includes some policy recommendations for governments. A quantum technologies policy primer:
Emphasises the critical role of anticipatory governance and international collaboration in shaping the human-centric and values-based development and use of quantum technologies. Quantum Technologies as a New Paradigm for Digital Economies and Societies, Policy brief:
Summarises the findings of a recent OECD paper that explores what quantum technologies are, their readiness for commercial use, the benefits they bring to economies and society, the risks they pose, and how governments can play a role in responsibly shaping their development. | | | | | Policy updates from FinlandFinnish ministry of labour and industry has set up a working group to define a national strategy for quantum technology up to 2035. Recently a public consultation was closed to give the input on their draft proposal. The mandate of the working group ends on 14 March 2025. The goal of the strategy is to create a significant new industrial sector in Finland, and for Finland to succeed in international competition for investments, companies and experts, and to play a significant role in international RDI cooperation.
Finland Seeks Input on Quantum Technology Strategy
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Quantum Technology Events
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