Early exploration of quantum technologies – both within the scientific domain and on the wider societal level – is essential, even if it may take decades before they are ripe for everyday use. The rapid rise of artificial intelligence underlines the importance of understanding, as early as possible, the potential impact of emerging technologies. With this in mind, the United Nations International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ) in 2025 will provide a global framework to inform about, discuss and reflect on the status and future of quantum technologies, including their implications for the current global societal challenges.
The CERN Quantum Technology Initiative (QTI) began in 2018 with a workshop on Quantum Computing in High-Energy Physics. This kick-off event explored the state of the art of quantum research and identified opportunities for collaboration between academia and industry. Six years on, the QTI is now in its second phase and benefits from established partnerships. It has identified three core areas – quantum computing, networking and sensing – where future technologies are expected to make significant contributions to CERN’s scientific mission.
More recently, CERN opened its doors to the Open Quantum Institute (OQI), a multilateral platform incubated by GESDA that brings together stakeholders from academia, industry, diplomacy and education. The raison d’être of the OQI is promoting inclusive access to quantum computing and the advancement of its applications for the benefit of society.
Through initiatives like the QTI and OQI, CERN is contributing to research and fostering international collaboration, with a focus on making quantum technologies accessible to a broad audience. The participation of CERN and OQI in the IYQ underscores our commitment to exploring the applications of quantum technologies and sharing knowledge widely.
The IYQ inaugural event at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris on 4 and 5 February 2025 will be followed by a series of initiatives and events worldwide, which will offer opportunities to learn about and engage with quantum science. At CERN, the 2025 public event season will be devoted to this quantum year. Events in CERN Science Gateway are set to include talks, performances, a film festival and more, and the programme will be available from January 2025 via visit.cern/events.
The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology aims to ensure that this transformative technology is developed and understood in a way that benefits everyone.
