Harnessing the Power of the Second Quantum Revolution

TL;DR

This paper reviews the development of Quantum Information Science from fundamental research to practical quantum technologies, emphasizing the importance of basic science in advancing quantum applications amidst current NISQ device limitations.

Contribution

It highlights the critical role of curiosity-driven research in enabling quantum technological breakthroughs and discusses the ongoing need for fundamental understanding to progress in the field.

Findings

Quantum Information Science has evolved from fundamental physics and information science.

Basic research remains essential for advancing quantum technologies.

Understanding quantum complexity is key to future applications.

Abstract

The second quantum revolution has been built on a foundation of fundamental research at the intersection of physics and information science, giving rise to the discipline we now call Quantum Information Science (QIS). The quest for new knowledge and understanding drove the development of new experimental tools and rigorous theory, which defined the roadmap for second-wave quantum technologies, including quantum computers, quantum-enhanced sensors, and communication systems. As technology has matured, the race to develop and commercialize near-term applications has accelerated. In the current regime of Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (NISQ) devices, the continued necessity of basic research is manifest. Under what conditions can we truly harness quantum complexity and what are its implications for potential useful applications? These questions remain largely unanswered, and as the QIS industry ramps up, a continuous feedback between basic science and technology is essential. In this Perspective I review how curiosity-driven research led to radical new technologies and why the quest for basic understanding is essential for further progress.