The power of quantum technology

Quantum computing is perhaps the most well-known and studied quantum technology, which aims to manipulate the superposition of quantum bits, or qubits, for the simultaneous execution of multiple calculations, leading to exponential speedup over classical computers.

For example, Shor’s algorithm can factor large numbers into their prime factors, a problem that is believed to be intractable for classical computers. This has significant implications for the security of modern communications, which rely heavily on the computational complexity of factoring large numbers and as such, quantum algorithms could, theoretically, break many public key cryptography schemes.

As the emergence of quantum computing threatens the security of the internet, new technologies are being developed to create secure communication channels that are immune to the quantum advantage. The key idea behind quantum communication is to use the properties of entangled particles to encode and transmit information in a manner that is probably secure against eavesdroppers.

One of the most promising applications of quantum communication to date is quantum key distribution (QKD), which uses the laws of quantum mechanics to distribute secret keys between two parties without the need for a trusted third party.

Quantum simulation is also an exciting area of research that seeks to use quantum computers to simulate the behaviour of complex physical systems with the potential to enable breakthroughs in many areas of science and technology, including materials science, chemistry, and condensed matter physics.  This has the potential to deliver the ability to design new materials with specific properties, optimise chemical reactions, and study the behaviour of exotic states of matter.

Quantum sensing and quantum metrology are two distinct but related areas of quantum technology that rely on the sensitivity of quantum systems to measure physical quantities with high precision. Quantum sensing is focused on the development of sensors that can detect and measure physical parameters such as magnetic fields, temperature, and pressure, with applications ranging from medical diagnostics to environmental monitoring.

On the other hand, quantum metrology is focused on the development of high-precision measurement devices that can be used to measure physical quantities such as time, frequency, and length, with applications in scientific research and engineering.

Ireland’s strong research infrastructure and highly skilled workforce provide an excellent foundation for the development of quantum technology,  which has the potential to revolutionise many industries, from healthcare to finance to telecommunications and could help to solidify Ireland’s future as a leader in innovation and technology. Despite the significant progress that has been made in recent years, there are still many challenges that must be overcome before quantum technologies can be widely adopted.

There is a growing appetite for quantum technologies across many Irish research centres supported by national and European funding, as illustrated by the recent emergence of Irish academia spin-offs and Irish-led quantum computing companies. Furthermore, with organisations like Microsoft, Google, IBM and Intel already established in Ireland and involved in various research and development projects, the country is primed for academic and industrial quantum synergism.