QED-C teams with the Wilson Center to present a “Quantum Masterclass” on Capitol Hill for Congressional staff.

A 3-hour session on January 7 explored the near-and long-term applications of quantum information science and technology (QIST) in communications, networking, sensing, and computing through a series of presentations from industry experts. Representatives from AT&T, IBM, Zapata, Quantum Computing, ColdQuanta, and Lockheed Martin discussed their perspectives on high-impact use cases, ranging from more efficient design of materials and drugs to optimizing routes of delivery trucks  and eventually driverless cars. Quantum sensors and clocks are of particular interest for defense applications, such as positioning and navigation in a GPS-free environment. Presenters noted several areas of policy that have implications for the advancement of the U.S. quantum industry, including export controls and high-skilled workforce education and immigration.  There was a strong bipartisan turn out from both chambers and lively discussion among participants and presenters, indicating growing awareness and interest on the Hill about the application and implications of QIST.

QED-C is a consortium of industry, government, academia and other stakeholders that aims to enable and grow the U.S. quantum industry.  QED-C is managed by SRI International.  For more information contact QED-C Deputy Director Celia Merzbacher at celia.merzbacher@sri.com.