Braunschweig: The future of quantum technologies begins now!

Braunschweig: The future of quantum technologies begins now!

A lot is happening in the area of ​​quantum technologies in the Braunschweig region. Mayor Thorsten Kornblum highlights the outstanding research environment, which could be the key to the future development of this promising technology. This responsibility should be borne through close cooperation between science, business and politics, which should create the conditions for success in this innovative industry. According to the Technical University of Braunschweig, around 27,000 researchers are already active in quantum technology, so the region is well positioned to make its own mark in this area. The “Quantum Valley Lower Saxony” (QVLS) association brings together the activities of the various actors in order to achieve the best results, as Volksstimme can report.

The year 2025 has turned out to be a special time for quantum science. The United Nations has named it the Year of Quantum Science and Quantum Technologies. The awarding of the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physics to Alain Aspect, John Clauser and Anton Zeilinger, whose work has laid the foundations for many future developments, should also be seen in this context. There are therefore numerous signs that quantum phenomena could soon revolutionize many areas of the economy, particularly in the fields of energy supply, sensor technology, communication and cyber security. Cornelia Denz, President of the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), emphasizes the immense potential of quantum applications for the future.

A strong alliance for the future

In order to advance basic research and technology transfer, the “Quantum Valley Lower Saxony” (QVLS) alliance was founded. This is a cooperation between renowned institutions such as the Leibniz University of Hannover, the TU Braunschweig and the Albert Einstein Institute of the Max Planck Society. The aim of the alliance is to develop an ion trap quantum computer by the end of 2025, with Lower Saxony having invested over 220 million euros in quantum research over the last ten years. These investments are not only the basis for fundamental research, but are also intended to serve industry, as can be read on the website of the Lower Saxony Ministry of Science and Culture: [MWK Lower Saxony].

But what exactly are the goals of the alliance? Those involved pool their expertise in various areas, including nanotechnology and quantum algorithms. The development of quantum computers is also a crucial point, as they could open up new possibilities in materials research, drug development and artificial intelligence.

A look at the international market

Developments in the field of quantum technologies are attracting more and more attention worldwide, especially in Germany, where there is great interest in industrial use. A current study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research examined the innovation potential and challenges in German research and innovation policy. It turns out that technological progress, especially in the areas of quantum sensors, quantum communication and computing, brings with it enormous opportunities, but also very special challenges. For example, in Germany there are 18 start-ups active in quantum computing, most of which emerged as spin-offs from research institutions. The Fraunhofer ISI highlights that over $40 billion in global government investment has flowed into this area and that Germany plays a strong role in Europe.

In summary, the Braunschweig and Lower Saxony regions are well positioned in the race for supremacy in quantum technology. With the right measures and increased collaboration between science and industry, a real innovation center could be created here that will greatly enrich the local economy.