Quantum computing redefines the foundations of information, moving beyond classical bits and Boolean operations (AND, OR, NOT) to a framework built on quantum states and wavelike superposition. This shift enables certain problems, considered intractable, to be solved efficiently, challenging assumptions in cryptography. I examine the state of quantum computer technology and its industrial ecosystem, and I assess opportunities, risks, and emerging geopolitics of this field.

Bio:
Barry Sanders holds two Diplomas, a PhD, and a DSc from Imperial College London and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, Optica, the American Physical Society, and the UK Institute of Physics. He is known for foundational contributions to quantum optics and quantum information science. His research focuses on quantum information and on strategy for emerging dual-use technologies. Sanders is Scientific Director of the University of Calgary’s Quantum City, a Senior Fellow at the Canadian Centre for International Governance and Innovation, and a Visiting Scientist at CERN. He is an advisor for CERN’s Open Quantum Institute, the Google-GESDA XPRIZE for applied quantum computing, a few quantum start-ups, and quantum investors. He co-leads the Canada–France Quantum International Research Network, serves on four editorial boards, and has trained over one hundred graduate students and postdoctoral researchers.

Coffee and tea will be served at 16h

Organised by : Alexander Zhiboedov