On January 7, 2025, researchers from the Jožef Stefan Institute (JSI) – Dr. Dragan Mihailović, Head of the Department of Complex Matter (F7), along with Dr. Anton Ramšak, Dr. Zala Lenarčič, and Dr. Lev Vidmar from the Department of Theoretical Physics (F1) – joined the Intelekta podcast to discuss the second quantum revolution.
In the podcast, they addressed topics related to the extraordinary capabilities of quantum computers. These devices will tackle tasks beyond the reach of even the most powerful supercomputers, such as breaking encryption systems that currently safeguard our digital data. This has driven the intensive development of quantum communication technologies, designed to be secure against such breaches.
The discussion also highlighted how quantum technologies will deepen our understanding of processes at the nanoscale, at the level of molecules and atoms. This progress will pave the way for breakthroughs in numerous fields, including the development of new drugs and advanced materials. For these reasons, we refer to this era as the second quantum revolution. It is termed “second” because the discovery of quantum mechanics principles a century ago not only transformed our understanding of how the universe operates at its smallest scale but also became the foundation of many indispensable modern technologies – from computer microchips, GPS, solar cells, and lasers to MRI imaging and many more.
Prof. Dr. Lev Vidmar, Deputy Coordinator of the SQUASH project – the Slovenian Quantum Science Hub, shared insights on how the JSI plans to advance quantum science over the next five years. The project will focus on all four key research areas: Quantum Theory, Quantum Materials, Quantum Technology, and Quantum Computing and Information.
You can listen to the podcast (in Slovenian) here.