The time is now to apply responsible quantum innovation

The next generation of quantum researchers carry the torch of Ray Laflamme, late IQC founding executive director

By Naomi Grosman

Quantum technologies are changing our world.

Research at the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) alone has delivered quantum computing devices that can simulate quarks, a satellite that will soon send a quantum encrypted connection from Earth to space, and quantum sensors that can detect signals as faint as one unit of light.

Inspired by the late Dr. Ray Laflamme, founding executive director of IQC, a group of young quantum researchers are also looking beyond how quantum science and technology will impact society. They are asking: “How will it be used responsibly?”

Stakes are high to get it right

Katya Driscoll, Rodolfo Reis Soldati, Bruna Shinohara de Mendonça and Ria Chakraborty looked at different quantum strategies globally and measured how Canada compares within the context of a responsible quantum innovation framework, which was co-developed by Laflamme. They identified gaps and strengths in Canada's National Quantum Strategy and proposed ways to fill those gaps.

Driscoll, IQC master’s student in the Department of Applied Mathematics, says quantum technologies have the potential to influence areas like cybersecurity, communication and society more broadly.

“With this level of impact, we need to think carefully about how these technologies will be deployed and governed. Since we’re still in the early stages of the quantum era, we have the opportunity to anticipate and minimize risks now rather than reacting to them after the fact.”
- Katya Driscoll, IQC master's student in the Department of Applied Mathematics