Quantum physics challenges our most basics intuitions, yet it provides astonishingly accurate predictions on the behavior of matter and energy at atomic and subatomic scales. Without it, we wouldn’t have developed useful technologies, such as Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation (LASER), Light-emitting diodes (LEDs), transistors, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners for medical diagnostics or Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, which relies on atomic clocks. We are at the second quantum technological revolution, with quantum computers being one of the most promising frontiers.
We invite you to take a journey to the core of Quantum Physics, starting from its foundations, and building day by day the basis to understand the upcoming quantum technologies. The project will combine theoretical learning with practical experiments, allowing you to enjoy a journey into secure communication starting with an introduction to mathematical language (basic algebra and matrices) followed by the theory on quantum physics and cryptography and computer simulations in a friendly environment. At the end, you will work in groups for a hands-on experiment and will witness how quantum physics is strictly connected to information processing and how it can improve current technologies, such as communications, cryptography, and computing.
ICFO will offer you the unique opportunity to visit ICFO laboratories and spin-offs, and the Cybersecurity Agency of Catalonia. This experience will showcase not only the practical and fundamental aspects of quantum cryptography but also its real-world applications. You will witness what it is like to be at the forefront of cutting-edge research in quantum cryptography and secure communications.
Even if it may seem incredible, quantum physics has an important impact on our daily life. Richard Feynman said that it is safe to say that nobody understands quantum mechanics. But during your stay at ICFO we challenge you to prove him wrong: understand the basics of quantum physics and discover how many new technologies can stem from it, so you can be an active part of the quantum revolution!
Learning objectives
- Understand the fundamental principles of quantum physics and its role in modern cryptography.
- Explore how quantum mechanics can improve current communication technologies.
- Engage in hands-on group activities, including building experimental setups and running computer simulations.
- Work alongside qualified researchers and scientists at ICFO, a leading research center in photonics and quantum technologies.
- Get to know ICFO laboratories and spin-offs and visit the Cybersecurity Agency of Catalonia.
Matching profiles
Students with an interest in: Physics, Photonics, Optics, Computer programming, Mathematics, Engineering.
Required materials
Laptop
