Quantum computing, a cutting-edge field that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics, has the power to revolutionize society and industries across the board. It offers processing capabilities far beyond what classical computers can achieve. Recognizing its immense potential, UBS, in collaboration with the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator Foundation (GESDA), CERN, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, ETH Zurich, and EPFL, is proud to announce the launch of the Open Quantum Institute (OQI).
The OQI aims to harness the power of quantum computing to accelerate progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By bringing together experts from various fields, the OQI seeks to tackle pressing global issues in domains such as healthcare, energy, climate action, clean water, and food security. This innovative project represents a significant step towards building a more sustainable future for all.
Quantum computing’s ability to solve complex problems that were once deemed unsolvable has garnered attention from industries such as finance, chemistry, and materials science. By unlocking the full potential of quantum computing, the OQI and its partners are poised to drive groundbreaking advancements that will positively impact society and pave the way for a new era of scientific discovery.
As a leading partner, UBS is committed to providing substantial financial support, with an annual funding commitment of up to CHF 2 million. In addition to financial backing, UBS will also contribute strategic expertise to guide the OQI’s endeavors. UBS Group Chief Risk Officer Christian Bluhm, who will join the foundation’s Advisory Board, expressed his enthusiasm for this collaborative effort, highlighting the importance of technological innovation in addressing society’s most pressing challenges. By investing in quantum computing, UBS aims to position Switzerland as a global leader in this groundbreaking field and contribute to the advancement of first-class higher education institutions in the country.
The Chairman of GESDA, Peter Brabeck-Letmathe, emphasized the success achieved through science diplomacy, which galvanizes multilateralism into tangible action. The OQI is a testament to the hard work and dedication of over 130 experts from around the world who collaborated over the past year. By leveraging science and diplomacy anticipation, GESDA aims to enhance the international community’s impact and innovation capacity.
Through this unique partnership, the OQI is poised to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and help realize the UN Sustainable Development Goals. By harnessing the power of quantum computing, this interdisciplinary initiative promises to pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for people across the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is quantum computing?
Quantum computing is a field of study that utilizes the principles of quantum mechanics to supercharge computation capabilities, surpassing the limitations of classical computers. It holds the potential to solve complex problems at an unprecedented speed.
2. How does the Open Quantum Institute (OQI) contribute to sustainable development?
The OQI brings together experts from diverse fields to harness the power of quantum computing for solving global challenges related to sustainable development. By accelerating progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the OQI aims to address pressing issues in areas such as healthcare, energy, climate action, clean water, and food security.
3. What role does UBS play in the OQI?
UBS is a lead partner of the OQI and provides significant financial support, amounting to CHF 2 million annually. Additionally, UBS brings strategic expertise to guide the initiatives of the OQI. Christian Bluhm, UBS Group Chief Risk Officer, joins the foundation’s Advisory Board.
4. How does the OQI promote collaboration and innovation?
The OQI fosters collaboration between scientific research, business, and government entities. By leveraging science diplomacy and multilateral cooperation, the OQI aims to drive tangible action and push the boundaries of technological development. Through open dialogue and knowledge exchange, the OQI facilitates innovation in quantum computing and sustainable development.
5. How does GESDA contribute to the OQI?
GESDA, as an independent non-profit foundation, plays a crucial role in the OQI partnership. It brings together Swiss and Geneva authorities in a private-public partnership to amplify the impact and innovation capacity of the international community through science and diplomacy anticipation. This collaboration provides the necessary framework and resources to drive the success of the OQI’s initiatives.
Sources:
UBS: https://www.ubs.com/
GESDA: https://www.gesda.global/