Impressions from the recent Learning from Leaders Event – Quantum Technologies and their Impact on Business

Quantum Technologies viewed from two perspectives

The ‘Learning from Leaders’ event was designed to address all questions from an academic and a business perspective. We were delighted that Dr. Judith Gabel, an experimental physicist at LMU and part of the QL3 – Quantum LifeLong Learning project, shared her many years of experience in research and educational practice from an academic perspective. As a counterpart from the business world, we were able to secure Dr. Alexander Glätzle as a guest, co-founder and CEO of the start-up planqc, who wants to revolutionize the production of quantum computers. This year, Capital Magazine included him in the Top 40 under 40. Professional moderator Isabel Werdin rounded out the discussion. Her questions made the complex topic more accessible for all participants, regardless of their  background in Quantum Technologies.

Will Quantum Technologies have a Breakthrough?

It is difficult to compare the development of Quantum Technologies  with Artificial Intelligence or other disruptive technologies. Every technological advance follows its own rhythm and has different “breakthrough moments.” Whether a kind of “ChatGPT” moment will also arise in Quantum Technologies is still a question mark. A variety of factors  such as  hardware suppliers  of quantum computers can slow down or speed up development processes. In principle, Quantum Technologies have the potential to revolutionize our everyday lives.

What Applications are there for Quantum Technologies?

Quantum Technologies are currently suitable for specific tasks but promise even greater advantages in the future. For example, Quantum Sensors are characterized by superior performance compared to conventional sensors and offer a wide range of applications, e.g., in medicine for extremely precise measurements. Quantum computers can be used to simulate molecules and chemical reactions, which greatly interests various sectors, such as materials research or the chemical industry. However, Quantum Computers are not yet sufficiently mature to tackle complex problems on a large scale. Current use is, therefore, limited to experiments with very limited problem sizes. The so-called “quantum advantage”, i.e. the superiority over conventional computers, has not yet been realized. Nevertheless, companies have the opportunity to acquire computing power on quantum computers in order to carry out initial experiments and explore the potential of this technology.

Closely linked: Business and research in the field of Quantum Technologies

Research institutions and start-ups are currently the key economic players in the field of Quantum Technologies, and particularly in the development of quantum computers. The latest developments in the field of quantum technologies are closely linked with the current state of research. In Munich, both benefit from the Munich Quantum Valley, which brings research and practice together. In addition, the state of Bavaria promotes quantum technologies, which makes Munich an attractive location for start-ups in this field.

Networking and individual questions to the experts

After the discussion round and a general Q&A in the plenary session, there was time for networking and individual questions for Dr. Judith Gabel and Dr. Alexander Glätzle. Both experts answered many questions from the participants after the official program. Over refreshments and finger food, many discussed the latest findings.

We want to thank you for this successful evening and look forward to further networking opportunities in 2024.

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All photos © Thomas Linkel