Most people think that quantum technology belongs to the future.
It doesn’t.
Large companies and public authorities should prepare for it as if the future was tomorrow.
This message comes from top quantum technology expert Olivier Ezratty, who, among other things, is an advisor for the French government on matters relating to quantum technology.
“If you’re a citizen, you may not see the consequences of quantum technologies for a long time. It’s only going to affect your life indirectly. But governments and large enterprises must prepare. They must understand that it’s more of a marathon than a sprint. You must trust your scientists, even when they fail. Developing quantum technology is a long-term game,” Ezratty says.
“Authorities that want to fertilize the ground for a lucrative deep-tech environment should ensure that there’s an infrastructure that supports it. An education system that attracts students to engineering courses and supports development by investing in the research and startups so there’s room to fail,” he says and continues:
“What I usually say to governments is: Scientific uncertainty is an opportunity. If you don’t have scientific uncertainty, it quickly becomes a question of marketing and financial strength to win the race and it nearly always favours the USA against Europe.”
DTU is among the world leaders in quantum technology development
DTU plays a significant role in the development of quantum technology, and as part of the Copenhagen region, DTU is among the world leaders in quantum technology development.
“Quantum DTU, which coordinates interdisciplinary collaboration and supports strategic initiatives, enables DTU to be a worldwide reference in all aspects of quantum technology,” says Head of the centre, physicist, and entrepreneur Lydia Baril.
“DTU has already proven to be highly competent. Last year NATO chose DTU as a test and production facility for the new programme DIANA focusing on Emerging and Disruptive Technologies (EDTs) such as quantum communications, sensing, computing, and simulations,” she says.
NATO acknowledged the need to focus on specific deep-tech verticals to maintain the Alliance’s technological edge, and hope with DIANA to attract dual-use innovators.
