The recent announcement that the UK government is launching a 10-year quantum strategy that will see it invest £2.5 billion shows that quantum technologies are central to the UK’s innovation strategy. Quantum is not only making waves in the UK either, according to the World Economic Forum, a total of 17 countries have invested in a national program of quantum technology research and development. For example, France, Germany and India have all launched major quantum investment initiatives in excess of $1 billion, and Israel’s National Program for Quantum Science and Technology pledged $380 million over 6 years in 2019 (CIFAR, 2021).

It is the game changing and far-reaching possibilities of quantum technologies that are beginning to appeal to public and private entities around the world. Innovative applications for quantum technologies include:

• Cybersecurity: Quantum technologies are being used to significantly enhance cybersecurity. One such way is through the development of Quantum Random Number Generators (QRNGs) which create truly random numbers needed for encryption keys. For example, Quantum Dice is developing the world’s first compact, high-speed and continuously self-certifying quantum random number generator (QRNG).
• Medical research and drug discovery: Quantum computing can simulate complex molecules much faster than classical computing, which could accelerate drug research (McKinsey, 2022).
• Energy production: Quantum technology and simulation could make energy production much more efficient, which could help us make progress in the fight against climate change. It could revolutionise the production of batteries, cement and solar cells (McKinsey, 2022).

Why is quantum awareness important?

While the increasing number of national quantum initiatives shows a growing level of awareness, there is still work to be done. The potential impact of quantum technology is huge, but for the organisations working hard to deliver and commercialise technology to solve some of society’s most pressing challenges, wider public understanding is crucial.

This is why campaigns like World Quantum Day are so important for emerging industries. By raising awareness, we can:

• Ensure a strong pipeline of talent: Educating young people from diverse backgrounds about the opportunities that exist for pursuing careers in quantum technology will help fill critical roles with the right talent.
• Better understand the nuances of target industries: Engaging experts in the sectors that quantum-enabled technology could be applied to will ensure the benefits and challenges are better understood.
• Empower the general public: By learning about how quantum technologies can impact their day-to-day lives in a pragmatic way, the broader public can be more informed about what the future might hold.

Be part of the quantum revolution

As we celebrate World Quantum Day, we invite you to join us in exploring the exciting possibilities of quantum technologies. Whether you are a physicist, an engineer, or simply someone who is curious about the world around you, there has never been a better time to get involved in this exciting field.

At Quantum Dice, we have team members working on physics and engineering as well as people working on marketing and communications, and everything in between. If you want to help us bring to the world the incredible advantages of quantum technologies, check out our current vacancies.

If you would simply like to get to grips with some of the key quantum technology terms and concepts, then why not check out our A-Z guide to quantum technology: A glossary of terms.