University of New Mexico faculty expertise was on full display this week as researchers and scientists from around the globe gathered in Albuquerque, creating a central hub of innovation and intellectual exchange for the IEEE International Conference on Quantum Computing and Engineering (QCE25).
"Hosting IEEE Quantum Week in Albuquerque at this moment is a unique opportunity for the State of New Mexico," said Bob Ledoux, Quantum New Mexico Institute (QNM-I) director. "It allows us to showcase the essential role that UNM, Sandia Labs, and Los Alamos Labs have played in the development of Quantum Information Science, and the pivotal role we now play in expanding those discoveries into commercial reality. With the state's recent commitments to quantum growth, we are showing the world that New Mexico is the place where science, innovation, and economic opportunity come together."
So many times, UNM researchers are asked, 'what is Quantum.' QCE25 is a great resource for clarifying these types of questions.
"Quantum Information Science (QIS) harnesses the fundamental properties of quantum physics—superposition and entanglement—to enable ultra-sensitive sensors, secure communications, and quantum chemistry simulations with exponential speed-ups," Ledoux said. "While rapidly evolving, QIS holds the promise of positively impacting our daily lives—accelerating progress toward abundant affordable energy, advancing drug discovery, securing digital communications, and enabling the design of new materials for industry".
The QCE25 conference not only showcases groundbreaking advancements in the field of quantum computing but also fosters collaboration among learners eager to share their insights and discoveries. UNM researchers participated and led several keynote addresses, panel discussions, and workshops throughout the conference.
- QNM-I Director Robert J. Ledoux | Keynote Panelist "How to Start Your Quantum Company" | Successful funding proposals to both public and private entities
- QNM-I Director Robert J. Ledoux | Keynote Speaker "6th Quantum Computing Opportunities in Energy Innovation" | The role of quantum computing in advancing energy innovation.
- UNM Distinguished Professor Ivan Deutsch | Keynote Moderator "Keynote: Nobel Laureates David Wineland & William Phillips" | Bringing international recognition to New Mexico's quantum leadership.
- UNM Distinguished Professor Ivan Deutsch | Moderator "The Quantum New Mexico Institute – Why New Mexico is a Quantum State" | Expanding dialogue on the frontiers of quantum information science
- UNM Assistant Professor Milad Marvian | Workshop Presenter | Quantum Computing Research Challenges
- The Quantum New Mexico Institute and the Center for High Tech Materials | The New Mexico Pavilion | Spotlighting research, workforce development, and commercialization partnerships
QCE25 also featured keynote addresses by world-renowned quantum computing experts, as well dozens of exhibits, tutorials, workshops, posters sessions, and panels. Topics included quantum computing, quantum machine learning, quantum generative AI, software engineering, quantum sensing, quantum algorithms and information, quantum education and many other quantum technologies and applications.
"We are excited to be in Albuquerque for this year's conference," said QCE25 General Chair Candace Culhane. "Quantum Week is bridging the gap between the science of quantum computing and development of the industry surrounding it. As such, this event brings a perspective to the quantum industry that is different from academic or business conferences."
The conference was not only the perfect opportunity to showcase UNM's commitment to quantum science and groundbreaking research, but to introduce The University's newest category 3 interdisciplinary center, QNM-I.
"QNM-I is a new model for advancing quantum science, education, and economic growth by partnering with Sandia National Laboratory and Los Alamos National Laboratory, while working alongside Elevate Quantum, Roadrunner Venture Studios, industrial partners, and state and federal agencies," Ledoux said. "QNM-I is building an ecosystem wherein discovery, workforce training, and commercialization move together—ensuring New Mexico fully claims its role as the Quantum State."
"Being able to host QCE25 is so important to showcase New Mexico's accelerating commitment to develop quantum technologies that will drive the economy of tomorrow," Deutsch said. "We heard a unifying voice from local and state leaders including major announcements regarding the new Roadrunner Quantum Venture Studios, and the DARPA Quantum Benchmarking Initiative partnership with New Mexico. This builds on the decades of foundation of scholarship and education at The University of New Mexico, and its partners at Sandia and Los Alamos National Labs, the cornerstone of QNM-I."
