Petr Kavalíř represented the Czech Republic at the meeting of global leaders in quantum research

International Conference Science

Quantum World Congress 2024, held from September 9th to 11th in Washington, D.C., brought together key global figures in quantum research, industry, and policy. Petr Kavalíř from UWB's NTC confirmed the Czech Republic’s involvement in the global quantum community through his participation.

Quantum World Congress is one of its largest events, focusing on advancing quantum technologies, their integration into the real world, and fostering international collaboration across various sectors. The program included keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops covering topics ranging from quantum computing to quantum networks, sensors, and security. Kavalíř took part in a panel discussion alongside experts from the USA, Chile, Brazil, and Finland, where they explored the challenges and opportunities in international cooperation within the quantum technology field.

The advancements showcased at the Congress are clear evidence that quantum technologies are becoming a reality, already starting to significantly impact a wide range of industries—from healthcare to manufacturing,” said Kavalíř.

Some of the most notable moments of the Congress included presentations from companies like IBM, Microsoft, IONCQ, Google, AWS, and PsiQuantum, as well as agencies such as NASA, NSF, and NIST. IBM, for instance, introduced its new IBM Quantum Heron system, which promises significant improvements in quantum computing performance and accuracy. Additionally, updates to the Qiskit software package are enabling researchers and developers to more easily create algorithms and quantum applications.

Several distinguished individuals were honored for their contributions to quantum science, including Jay Gambetta from IBM, who received the 2024 Industry Pioneer in Quantum award for leading the development of the world’s largest fleet of quantum computers. Kavalíř had the opportunity to discuss future trends and potential collaboration with Gambetta during the event.

Petr Kavalíř also spoke at another prestigious event, the Global Quantum Strategies Overview 2024 at Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center. “It was an honor to represent the Czech quantum ecosystem at this distinguished forum. The discussions touched on national quantum strategies, the formation of international partnerships, and the role of the private sector. It’s an incredibly dynamic field that is advancing rapidly,” Kavalíř noted.

"I am proud that at the University of West Bohemia, we are also heavily involved in these cutting-edge technologies. In addition to world-class research on quantum materials for sustainable technologies conducted at NTC and the Faculty of Applied Sciences (FAS), the FAS is also planning to introduce a new program in quantum computing, and, in collaboration with NTC, a doctoral program focused on quantum materials," he added.

The participation of the Czech Republic at both the Quantum World Congress 2024 and Global Quantum Strategies Overview 2024 underscores the nation’s commitment to being part of the quantum technology revolution. As the Special Envoy for Quantum Technologies to the Deputy Prime Minister for Digitalization and the Minister for Science and Innovation, Petr Kavalíř’s role is not only to represent the Czech Republic at international forums but also to actively support the development of the Czech quantum ecosystem, striving to position the country as a key player in the global quantum technology landscape.

Gallery


Jay Gambetta, IBM Vice President in charge of the overall quantum initiative and NTC Director Petr Kavalíř

New Technologies - Research Centre (NTC)

Dita Sládková

13. 09. 2024