Quantum Computing and Quantum Algorithms

Quantum science studies the rules of atoms, photons, electrons, and more, and has been used to develop everyday tools like lasers and GPS. Modern quantum research explores what happens when you encode information in individual quantum systems and what kinds of problems computers based on quantum mechanics can solve. In this workshop, you’ll explore how quantum computers solve problems differently than today’s computers. We’ll investigate the search algorithm and use a board game to examine the advantages and disadvantages of using quantum computers for this purpose. We’ll end with a series of demonstrations showing how researchers are building quantum technologies in the lab today.

John Donoghue

The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) is a research institute at the University of Waterloo propelling the development of quantum science and technology. IQC’s 30+ research groups and 200+ research students harness quantum properties like superposition and entanglement to develop new kinds of computers, sensors, materials, and communication systems. IQC runs many education programs, including the annual Quantum School for Young Students (QSYS) for high-school students.