Main Conference Day One

Increasingly, governments globally are engaging and investing in quantum technology firms to advance potentially ground-breaking applications in computing, communications, networking and sensing, setting the stage for technology that would have unprecedented benefits to society. Quantum computing represents an unparalleled paradigm shift in computational capabilities by seizing the inherent parallelism of quantum superposition. It is important to realize that quantum computing is not a monolithic technology, rather, it is built upon various modalities and architectures based on unique quantum hardware and associated quantum-algorithm programming. In this talk, we will highlight the emerging applications of quantum computing in areas such as modelling and simulation, cyber security, novel materials design and weather modelling and forecasting, focusing on benefits to the Navy, the NAE and DoD. The talk will touch upon the use cases having short-term, mid-term, and long-term timelines and their associated challenges for technological advancement. The talk briefly outlines the quantum effort worldwide, the quantum R&D communities of interest and potential opportunities for innovation in the rapidly advancing field of quantum computing technologies 

Manivannan Venkatesan

Advanced Technology (Digital) Lead
US Navy

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As artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing continue to evolve, their combined potential offers transformative possibilities for both government and commercial sectors. This panel will explore how these two groundbreaking technologies are being harnessed together to drive advancements in national security, data analysis, and business innovation. 

Key discussion points include: 

• How are AI and quantum computing working in tandem to solve complex problems in government and commerce? 
• What are the specific use cases where AI enhances the power of quantum computing, and vice versa? 
• How can governments and industries leverage AI and quantum to improve decision-making, cybersecurity, and operational efficiency? 
• What are the challenges in integrating AI and quantum systems, and how are these being addressed in terms of infrastructure, talent, and regulation? 
• What is the future outlook for the combined impact of AI and quantum computing on global competitiveness, economic growth, and national security? 

This panel will provide insights into the emerging synergies between AI and quantum computing, and the profound implications they have for shaping the future of digital infrastructure and policy. 

Bob Sutor

VP and Practice Leader, Emerging Techologies
Futurum Group

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Aparna Prabhakar

SVP Strategy and Sustainability
Schneider Electric

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Rick Muller

Director
Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity

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Zac Dutton

Lead Scientist
Raytheon

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Yancho Gerdjikov

Manager, Emerging Technologies
Nestlé

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A technology showcase

As quantum hardware advances, the distinction between Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) systems and fault-tolerant quantum computing is becoming a central focus in the race to develop scalable quantum technologies. This panel will bring together the leaders driving these developments to  explore the challenges and breakthroughs in qubit development and the journey from NISQ systems to fully fault-tolerant quantum computers. 

Key topics to be addressed by these industry leaders include: 

• What are the key differences between NISQ-era quantum systems and fault-tolerant quantum computing? 
• How are researchers and industry working to increase qubit counts while improving qubit quality and coherence times? 
• What are the practical challenges in scaling quantum hardware, and how do error correction and fault tolerance play a role in this progression? 
• What are the real-world applications for NISQ systems, and how far are we from transitioning to fault-tolerant quantum machines capable of solving larger, more complex problems? 
• How are industry and academia addressing the current limitations in qubit development, and what advancements can we expect in the near future for more robust quantum hardware? 

This session will provide insights into the evolving landscape of quantum hardware, the ongoing efforts to scale qubits, and the future potential of fault-tolerant quantum computing. 

Sponsored by: Oxford Ionics

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Sponsored by: Photonic Inc.

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Sponsored by: Quantum Computing Inc

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Chris Ballance

CEO and Co Founder
Oxford Ionics

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Stephanie Simmons

Founder & Chief Quantum Officer
Photonic Inc.

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David Shaw

Chief Analyst
Global Quantum Intelligence

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As quantum technologies rapidly evolve, international collaboration plays a vital role in shaping the global quantum landscape. However, the rise of "quantum nationalism" and competition for talent and resources create significant challenges for fostering cooperation. This panel will explore the delicate balance between collaboration and competition, alongside the workforce challenges the quantum industry faces. 

Key discussion points include: 

• How are countries balancing the need for international collaboration with the push for quantum sovereignty and national security interests? 
• What are the benefits and risks of "quantum nationalism," and how can nations work together to drive innovation without compromising their strategic goals? 
• What are the key challenges in building a global quantum workforce, and how can governments and industries ensure a strong pipeline of skilled talent in quantum technologies? 
• How are leading nations and international organizations fostering collaboration in quantum research, development, and standardization? 
• What are the workforce development strategies being implemented globally to address the demand for quantum scientists, engineers, and developers? 
• How can international partnerships help overcome barriers in quantum education, training, and access to research facilities? 

This panel will provide insights into the complexities of international collaboration in quantum technologies, the rise of quantum nationalism, and the strategies needed to develop a skilled, globally competitive quantum workforce. 

Sponsored by: Oxford Instruments NanoScience

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Seiji Yunoki

Chief Scientist, Computational Condensed Matter Physics Laboratory
RIKEN

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Dani Couger

Quantum Lead
Lockheed Martin

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Christopher Bishop

Chief Reinvention Officer
Improvising careers

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The National Quantum Information Science Research Centers (NQISRCs) have advanced critical components of the national quantum science and technology ecosystem through integrated research campaigns addressing major cross-cutting challenges. Our centers have created new national quantum foundries, chip-scale quantum computers, molecular-scale quantum sensors, and long-range quantum networks. The centers have stewarded a quantum ecosystem, through partnerships with industry and workforce development programs. In this Keynote Talk we will highlight major accomplishments, emphasizing the expertise, facilities, and cross-collaborative nature of the five centers. 

Bert De Jong

Director Quantum Systems Accelerator - National Quantum Initiative
Berkeley Lab

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As the quantum race intensifies, particularly with the growing threat from China, it’s crucial for National Labs and federal institutions to collaborate effectively to maintain U.S. leadership in quantum technologies. This panel will examine the strategic funding, legislation, and collaborative efforts necessary to advance quantum research and development. 

Key discussion points include: 

• How are National Labs and federal institutions coordinating efforts to ensure the U.S. stays at the forefront of the global quantum race? 
• In what ways are public-private partnerships facilitating funding and driving successful quantum initiatives? 
• How are education programs being aligned with industry needs to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of supporting quantum advancements? 
• What alliances are emerging among governmental, academic, and industry players to promote and advance quantum research and applications? 
• What are the opportunities and challenges in accelerating bilateral and multilateral collaborations to bolster U.S. quantum capabilities? 
• How does the current legislative landscape impact funding and strategic priorities for quantum technology development? 

This closing keynote panel will provide valuable insights into the collaborative frameworks and strategic initiatives necessary to secure U.S. leadership in quantum technologies amidst increasing global competition. 

Anna Grassellino

Senior Scientist, Director of Superconducting Quantum Materials & Systems Center
SQMS DOE National Quantum Information Science Research Center

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Kimberly D McGuire

Co-design Center for Quantum Advantage (C2QA)
Brookhaven National Laboratory

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David Shaw

Chief Analyst
Global Quantum Intelligence

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Travis Humble

Director -Quantum science Center
Oak Ridge National Laboratory

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