CERN Quantum Technology Initiative enters phase 2

The CERN Quantum Technology Initiative (CERN QTI) was launched in 2020, and there were several highlights and milestones in 2023, as the first three-year phase of the programme came to an end. Tangible progress has been made, with the projects pursued in the first phase identifying clear opportunities for quantum technologies in many areas of HEP as well as the areas of competence where CERN scientists can make a real contribution to the development of quantum technologies. Indeed many of the extreme requirements faced by quantum technologies are shared with high-energy physics such as complex algorithms, the need for superconducting materials, or for precise timing.

During this first phase, there has also been reinforcement of the goal of establishing education and training in the quantum field, with initiatives like the CERN QTI lecture series.

CERN also joined the World Quantum Day celebration, setting up a quantum workshop for high school students, to build the future generation of quantum experts.

CERN QTI Phase 2 has recently been launched and includes a major focus on co-development with industry and academia to ensure the requirements of the HEP community are taken into account within the industry supply chain. It aims to prioritise the R&D effort at CERN by working on specific projects spanning four themes, namely quantum computing and algorithms; quantum theory and simulation; quantum sensing and related nanotechnologies; and networking. The focus of each area will be to bring practical impact for CERN, support the development and adoption of quantum technologies beyond the Organization, and expand the current ecosystem of collaborations with academia, research institutes and industry. For example, White Rabbit, a technology that provides picosecond precise synchronisation of clocks, and its application for quantum networking will be further explored.

More information can be found here and in the recent article in Physics World.