The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) is where world-leading researchers, students and partners come together to explore, understand and advance quantum information science.
From computing and communication to sensing and materials, our work drives the discoveries and innovations that will shape future economies.
Through global collaboration, hands-on training, breakthrough research and educational outreach, IQC is turning quantum research into real-world scientific and commercial impact.
Help shape the quantum future
Quantum systems have the potential to change everything from healthcare to cybersecurity to global communication. Your support for IQC fuels groundbreaking research, develops future scientific leaders and advances the innovations that will shape Canada’s economic future.
Why quantum?
We are driven by curiosity. It is a force that propels us to unravel the mysteries of the universe and apply our findings to transform society. Throughout history, humanity has advanced by learning to tame natural phenomena like fire, steam and electromagnetism.
Today, IQC is harnessing nature at its most fundamental level and the next era of innovation. Quantum systems have a distinct set of physical rules, offering us a new way to approach complex problems in speed, precision and security. By exploring these fundamental principles, we are building the innovations that will shape the next era of discovery.
The future is quantum and IQC is shaping it now.
Latest news from IQC
News
Harnessing the fundamental rules of the universe
Every April 14, the global quantum community celebrates World Quantum Day. It’s a day that resonates strongly at Waterloo — Canada’s densest cluster of quantum talent, researchers, students and industry partners. Here, they work in close proximity, using the universe’s fundamental rules of quantum science to create new technologies, shaping Waterloo’s Quantum Valley.
IQC showcases research and innovation during Defence Minister visit
The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) welcomed Honourable David J. McGuinty, Canada’s Minister of National Defence, as part of a University of Waterloo visit where he emphasized direct funding to advance quantum technologies as part of a federal commitment for defence innovation.
IQC graduate student awarded scholarship for outstanding career success
Alex Maierean, IQC PhD student and CEO of Phantom Photonics, has received the 2026 Women in Defence and Security Scholarship and Canadian Global Affairs Institute Fellowship.
What's happening at IQC - Events
Events
IQC student seminar featuring Kelly Wurtz
Entanglement Harvesting in Conformal Field Theory
Location: QNC 1201
IQC Math and CS seminar featuring Hugo Aaronson
Pseudo-Deterministic Quantum Algorithms
Location: 3206
Undergraduate School on Experimental Quantum Information Processing 2026
Explore quantum information science hands-on at a world-class institute.
What's happening here in Waterloo is truly special, from theory to experiment and BEYOND.
Statement in support of protecting Canadian science and researchers
The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) supports the efforts of the Government of Canada to secure and protect Canadian science and researchers. IQC takes the protection of intellectual property very seriously and commits to cooperate with various agencies and organizations in support of National Security priorities.
IQC also commits to, and will continue to, educate staff and researchers about the opportunities, pitfalls, and boundaries of protecting Canadian science and intellectual property for the benefit of IQC, the University of Waterloo, and indeed, future generations.