The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) brings together experts from three faculties across the University of Waterloo — Science, Mathematics and Engineering — to foster a truly interdisciplinary environment where theory and experiment thrive side by side. This unique collaboration allows us to advance quantum information at the highest international level.
IQC advances the fundamental and applied research that underpins tomorrow’s quantum technologies through the collective strength of the Departments of Applied Mathematics, Combinatorics and Optimization, Computer Science, Pure Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics and Astronomy, and Electrical and Computer Engineering.
From new computing architectures to secure communication networks and ultra-sensitive measurement systems, we connect world-leading expertise with global partners to build the foundation of future quantum applications.
Quantum computing
Developing new computational models, algorithms and architectures that outperform classical systems and push the frontier of what computers can solve.
Quantum communication
Building secure communication networks using quantum principles to enable unbreakable encryption and next-generation information transfer.
Quantum sensing
Designing ultra-precise sensors capable of detecting signals and measuring systems with new levels of accuracy that can unlock technological advancements to benefit society and industry.
Quantum materials and devices
Creating the foundational materials, qubits and sensors that support all quantum research, enabling breakthroughs in computing, communication and sensing.
Why quantum?
Quantum technologies, like all great innovations, are born out of human curiosity — the drive to understand the world around us.
As our knowledge deepens, we turn discovery into tools that transform society, and those tools, in turn, open new frontiers of scientific exploration.
At IQC, we harness the power of the quantum world to push beyond the limits of classical technologies and address challenges of unprecedented complexity.
Quantum research opens entirely new technological pathways by leveraging the unique properties of quantum systems.
Our research explores these fundamental principles to:
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solve computational problems that classical computers cannot
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secure communication networks against emerging threats
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build sensors capable of detecting signals at the smallest scales
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design materials and devices that enable the next-generation to drive research and innovation
By advancing the science behind these breakthroughs, IQC researchers are helping position Canada at the forefront of the next era of innovation.
Curiosity is a driving force of innovation. Our desire to understand how the world around us operates leads us to the need to control that world and create technologies to benefit society.
Our impact on quantum research
IQC researchers lead and contribute to major national and international initiatives that accelerate the development of quantum technologies and expand Canada’s global leadership in the field.
As a result, we are seeing quantum applications emerge in a wide variety of sectors, including:
The future is quantum. We’re building what’s next.
Quantum Encryption and Science Satellite (QEYSSat)
IQC researchers play an integral role in QEYSSat, a Canadian space mission that will demonstrate secure quantum communication from space using satellite-to-ground quantum key distribution (QKD). IQC researchers provide expertise in quantum photonics, communication protocols and system design, helping Canada take a world-leading role in developing global quantum communication networks.
Transformative Quantum Technologies (TQT)
TQT accelerates the translation of quantum research into practical devices and applications. Through collaborative research, fabrication facilities and partnerships with industry, TQT supports the development of new quantum materials, prototype devices and sensing capabilities. The program helps bridge the gap between laboratory breakthroughs and real-world solutions that strengthen Canada’s capacity to lead in the emerging quantum economy.
