The Commissioner for Quantum Technologies will be NTC Director Petr Kavalíř

Press Release University Science

„I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the development of quantum technologies and materials in the Czech Republic and look forward to working with all relevant stakeholders," says Petr Kavalíř.

Deputy Prime Minister for Digitalization Ivan Bartoš and Minister for Science, Research, and Innovation Helena Langšádlová have jointly established a new position, the Commissioner for Quantum Technologies, and appointed Petr Kavalíř to the role. In response to current national and global challenges in the field of quantum technologies, this is an important step that will be implemented without any increase in costs.

This new position will play a key role in coordinating and supporting the development of quantum technologies in the Czech Republic. The Commissioner will closely collaborate with the teams of both ministers and lead the preparation of the National Quantum Strategy.

The appointment of the Commissioner reflects the growing importance of quantum technologies for our future. "Quantum technologies are a crucial element for the technological advancement of the Czech Republic and for ensuring the security of our information and data. They have the potential to fundamentally change how we work, communicate, create new materials or molecules, and solve complex problems," says Deputy Prime Minister for Digitalization and Minister for Local Development Ivan Bartoš.

The development of quantum technologies and materials is closely related to the fields of science and research, healthcare, and modern industry. Their impacts have the potential to influence society as a whole. "In the Czech Republic, we have top-notch basic research that we must support while emphasizing the transition to application, the deployment of technologies in industry, and the creation of start-ups and university spin-offs. These principles will be part of the National Strategy for Quantum Technologies, which we will prepare in cooperation with Deputy Prime Minister for Digitalization Ivan Bartoš and Commissioner for Quantum Technologies Petr Kavalíř," said Minister for Science, Research, and Innovation Helena Langšádlová.

“I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the development of quantum technologies and materials. It's a long-distance race where it's not just about money. We need to coordinate our activities not only in research, but also in education, and we also need to stimulate the emergence of a user community that will help find and implement useful applications. I look forward to working with all interested entities," says Petr Kavalíř.

Petr Kavalíř brings extensive experience in research and development management, technology transfer, and corporate management. He has experience leading research projects, supporting innovation, and developing strategic partnerships in domestic and international environments. He currently serves as the Director of the New Technologies Research Institute - Research Center of the University of West Bohemia in Plzeň, which focuses on quantum materials for sustainable technologies. He also holds the position of Vice Chair of the Expert Committee for Innovation and Technology at Business at OECD,  and is a member of the expert group for research, development, and innovation at the Confederation of Industry and Transport of the Czech Republic. Since August, he has been part of the Deputy Prime Minister's team for digitalization.

New Technologies - Research Centre (NTC)

Dita Sládková

20. 09. 2023