Grant: Alliance Grants

The Quantum Internet (QI) is a future network that connects quantum-enabled devices and that runs alongside the conventional internet. Due to unique quantum phenomena, the landscape for the QI is very different than for the conventional internet. This is especially true for aspects related to secure and distributed computations, where fundamental advantages such as unconditionally secure communications and more efficient computations are known. Much like the conventional internet, the advancement of the QI relies on progress both in hardware (devices) and software (applications). This proposal makes advances in the development of algorithms and protocols for the QI, while also aiming to bridge the gap between hardware and software. The long-term vision is to create innovative and disruptive software technologies for the QI that will benefit Canadians. Anticipated contributions range from the most fundamental understanding, all the way to software and cloud demonstrations. The long term vision is supported by three pillars: Quantum Entanglement, Quantum Communications and Quantum Cryptography. Additionally, a cross-cutting theme of Governance addresses legal and ethical impacts of the QI and aims to promote equitable access to this new technology. To bring about this vision, we will partner with a selection of Canadian startups active in quantum science. This will give the academics the opportunity to draw inspiration from problems relevant in the market, while the partners will benefit from the academics' experience in quantum software, in particular by offering new use cases. This project will boost Canada's training effort in quantum information at a time when this industry is poised to ramp up significantly. The trainees hired through this project will possess a unique, highly sought-after skillset acquired by a dual involvement in academic research and industry-based efforts. This project will thus strategically position Canada as a major player in this rapidly emerging field.