That’s why I am convinced that it is also a civic duty to talk and educate people about quantum technologies or quantum computers. And it is a political task of the 21st century to ensure that we all develop an understanding of how these technologies work. And I’m not just referring to quantum technologies, but also to artificial intelligence. We should remember a sentence from the Nobel Peace Prize winner Christian Lous Lange in the 1920s: “Technology is a useful servant, but a dangerous master.”
“We in Europe cannot afford to be at the bottom again”
Do you also see the combination of AI and quantum computing as an explosive mix?
Fernandez-Vidal: When these two areas of knowledge come together, it will be a double-edged sword. Applying machine learning algorithms to quantum computing will be very attractive. In fact, this type of algorithm is already being worked on. We don’t yet have the hardware, i.e. the physical quantum computers, to execute this.
What do you think – when will the first pure quantum computer be fully functional?
Fernandez-Vidal: We have now reached a point called “quantum supremacy” – a somewhat unfortunate term that is currently being changed. At the moment, quantum computers are not yet functional. Optimists assume that this will change within the next five years, while pessimists assume it will change within a decade. So we will soon know which faction is closer to reality.
How would you describe the European landscape in the field of quantum computing?
Fernandez-Vidal: Apparently there is more flexibility for technology startups in the US than in Europe. We have also observed this in the area of AI. When it comes to research, we have very good centers in Europe. But the problem is the lack of investment, which lags far behind that of the USA and China. We in Europe in particular have to ensure that these new technologies are developed here.
A look at the development of the chip market shows why this is important: We stopped producing at home because we thought it could be done faster and cheaper elsewhere. Only to realize in the end that it was a strategic mistake. The Quantum Flagship projects that the EU later funded to support the development of new generation quantum chips were pushed forward so that we do not find ourselves at the bottom of the race again. Because we can’t afford that in Europe.
You have previously worked at CERN and Los Alamos National Laboratory in the United States. What insights did you take away from there?
Fernandez-Vidal: I was still very young when I worked at CERN. There I didn’t work in the field of quantum physics, but in particle physics. It was undoubtedly a very interesting experience due to the close collaboration that takes place there between researchers of all countries, nationalities and ethnicities. This type of collaboration is considered a case study at renowned business schools.
And I think it works because everyone there is working towards the same, common goal: to decipher the origins of the universe in order to understand how it is structured. It is a mission so strong that it overcomes all barriers. Sometimes I’ve been asked whether I felt discriminated against there in some way because I was a young woman at the time – the answer is clearly no. In this environment we all see ourselves as “brains on two legs”.
“The current picture scares me”
What do you recommend IT professionals and leaders in organizations do to prepare for the upcoming quantum revolution?
Fernandez-Vidal: It is advisable to look into the topic of quantum encryption. But also with what optimizations are possible through the use of this technology – for example with regard to risk simulations. I would also advise IT decision-makers to act carefully and not to make hasty decisions. I recommend the same with regard to AI: we must not believe that these technologies will replace all of our analysts. I expect that some technology companies will have to reverse hasty decisions.
You have to understand exactly what AI can and cannot do. I see the technology as a kind of “Ironman suit”. It multiplies the abilities of the people in it, but it doesn’t work without it. The same is true with quantum technologies. In my opinion, the two most important things are to be well informed and not to let the changes drive you crazy. There is still no functioning quantum computer. And we don’t know exactly where we will reach the limits. Therefore, caution is advised.
Are you worried about the changes in the job market that are already emerging as new forms of generative and agentive AI are democratized?
Fernandez-Vidal: I’m no expert on artificial intelligence, but the current picture scares me – especially when it comes to our children. The main question is which jobs will still exist in the future and which will disappear. However, humanity has already experienced similar changes, just think of industrialization. When this started, it completely revolutionized society at the time. We will probably have to go through a similar transition.
What professional profiles do you think we will need in the quantum age?
Fernandez-Vidal: Physicists and mathematicians are the professions that will probably be best able to cope with all the changes that are coming. On the other hand, I can also imagine that universities will soon introduce courses in the field of quantum engineering.
What would you like to say to political decision-makers in your role as a scientist?
Fernandez-Vidal: That research is not a switch that you can turn at will. Cuts have consequences and investments are not only necessary but must also be sustained over the long term. We should remember that it is not the richest countries that invest in R&D, but rather that these investments make countries rich. If we are not aware of this, we will fall behind in the technology race – with all the associated disadvantages, including geopolitical ones.
This is an issue that affects not just a community of scientists, but all of us as citizens. As such, we not only have the right to educate ourselves about how technologies work, but also the obligation. (fm)
This article is im Original published by our sister publication Computerworld.es.
