NTU Quantum Industry Day 2024: Advancing the Frontiers of Quantum Technologies

On 9 December 2024, Nanyang Technological University (NTU) hosted its third Quantum Industry Day at the Collaborative Lab (Experimental Medicine Building), bringing together leading experts, researchers, and industry players to explore the rapidly evolving field of quantum technologies. As the quantum ecosystem continues to grow, NTU remains at the forefront, driving innovation and education in this exciting domain.

The event was jointly organised by the Institute of Advanced Studies (IAS), Institute for Pedagogical Innovation, Research and Excellence (InsPIRE), School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences (SPMS). Building on the success of previous editions, this year’s event was attended by more than 150 students, researchers, and faculty.

Pioneering Research at NTU

Assoc Prof Mile Gu kicked off the day with an Introduction to Quantum Research at NTU, shedding light on the university's initiatives and contributions to the field. He provided an engaging explanation of the basics of quantum computing and the qubit, the fundamental building block of quantum systems.

Insights into Quantum Computing and Applications

Dr Man-Hong Yung from Huawei Technologies followed with a comprehensive overview of the history and development of quantum computing. He delved into quantum-inspired algorithms and their potential applications in high energy physics, life sciences, telecommunications, and machine learning, painting a vivid picture of the transformative possibilities these technologies offer.

Overcoming Challenges with Quantum Error Correction

Killian Poirier from Entropic Labs presented an enlightening session on quantum error correction, a critical area for developing fault-tolerant quantum systems. He discussed the challenges inherent in quantum error correction and introduced the Loom platform, showcasing innovative approaches to this complex problem.

From left: Assoc Prof Gu Mile (SPMS NTU); Dr Man-Hong Yung (Huawei Technologies); Killian Poirier (Entropic Labs).

Exploring Quantum Platforms and Programming

Avi Behar from Classiq introduced the audience to the Classiq platform, demonstrating its capabilities in simplifying and accelerating quantum software development. Amanda Chew from Horizon Quantum Computing provided a sneak peek at Triple Alpha, a tool designed to streamline quantum computing programming, enabling the transformation of conventional code into quantum algorithms.

Education for the Quantum Era

Highlighting NTU's commitment to preparing students for careers in quantum technologies, Dr Ho Shen Yong introduced students to the Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics with a second major in Quantum Technologies programme, which was launched last year. This innovative curriculum aims to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to thrive in the quantum industry.

From left: Avi Behar (Classiq); Amanda Chew (Horizon Quantum Computing); Dr Ho Shen Yong (SPMS NTU).

Panel Discussion

A panel of six experts engaged in a lively discussion, addressing questions about the challenges and future directions of quantum computing. They emphasised the interdisciplinary nature of the field, noting that the quantum industry requires not only technical expertise but also diverse soft skills. The panel underscored the industry's rapid growth and the need for talent from various academic and professional backgrounds.

Hands-on Learning with Qiskit SDK

The day concluded with an interactive workshop led by IBM Quantum Developer Community Advocate Vishal Bajpe, who introduced participants to Qiskit SDK 1.0. This hands-on session provided valuable insights into programming for quantum systems, leaving participants inspired and equipped to further explore quantum technologies.

[Left] Panel discussion on Quantum Industry in the next 5 to 10 year with panellists (from left): Jayne Thompson  (Quantum Physics and Algorithms at A*STAR), Tamuz Danzig (Classiq); Raghunath Koduvayur (IQM Quantum Computers), Vishal Bajpe (IBM Quantum), Killian Poirier (Entropic Labs),  Man-Hong Yung (Huawei Technologies) | [Right] Vishal Bajpe (IBM Quantum) demonstrating the Qiskit SDK 1.0 to participants.

"Getting the chance to see how far the industry has advanced over the years and the current work in progress and motivations." - Lye Yu Zhe (PhD Student, MAE NTU)

"The workshop gave me opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds in the quantum industry and gained much insight about the future of quantum programming." - Chu Pei Xuan Joanne (Student, Anderson Serangoon Junior College)

"Learning what the state of quantum of quantum computing is from industry experts, and getting hands on with code." - Lewis Lovell (PhD Student, ASE NTU)