Quantum

How can we lower the cost of quantum computers, and open the technology to new industries? To answer this question, one researcher duo turned quantum noise – unwanted disturbances often caused by light – to their advantage. As part of the NEQC project, Dr. Jan Goetz and supervisor Prof. Mikko Möttönen integrated specialised devices into the fundamental building blocks of quantum computing that could actively harness quantum noise. In the process, they lowered the costs of quantum computing, overcoming some of the limitations of the technology and opening it to new uses in telecommunications, pharmaceuticals and financial services. ​​​After the project ended, the researchers from NEQC continued their work and founded a spin-out company called IQM Finland Oy. The company is quickly becoming a European leader in providing quantum computing hardware. Since its launch, it has attracted more than €500 million in funding and has more than 300 employees working to bring the technology to market.

In the future, quantum sensing technology could be used to measure single neurons in the brain, or even replace GPS systems through devices that would be able to navigate the Earth using its own magnetic field. This is in part due to work carried out by researchers in the QuSCO project, who demonstrated the promise of quantum control for quantum sensing and measurement. For example, the team developed an atom-scale magnetic field sensor which was embedded within a diamond. By working with industry leaders, researchers on the project were able to develop their skills, provide a plan for better quantum sensitivity, and give the technology a path to being used by European businesses. This way, the project managed to balance theoretical and practical research, providing researchers with opportunities to explore both. This new generation of European innovators is now ready to shape Europe’s technological future by tapping into quantum mechanics.

Scientists can now probe proteins, tiny biological samples and advanced materials that were previously impossible to analyse. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) is used across many fields of research to get insights into electrons in a substance. It can be used to scan tiny amounts of proteins and reveal how certain molecules work. Recent advancements in EPR sensitivity have been achieved by using superconducting microresonators – tiny circuits that are used in quantum computing – and the goal of the SPECTR project was to adapt these developments to solve new problems in biochemistry. SPECTR project researcher Dr. Mantas Šimėnas was able to increase detection sensitivity by up to a thousand times, speeding up research and making it more efficient. It means EPR can now analyse biological samples on a smaller scale, helping to support Europe’s research system and build capacity in quantum science, and the technology has attracted interest from institutions in both academia and industry.