Perimeter joins Canadian delegation at world’s largest tech event

Perimeter’s Marcela Carena, Executive Director, and Paul Smith, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer are part of a Canadian delegation of more than 240 organizations representing businesses, research institutions, colleges and universities, provincial and municipal governments, clusters, and organizations supporting economic development. The Canadian delegation is led by Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen), an industry-led non-profit organization that is leading Canada’s Global Innovation Cluster for Advanced Manufacturing. 

“Groundbreaking research in theoretical physics is the first link of the innovation chain, and a crucial bridge to industrial applications,” says Smith. “As a world-class destination for theoretical physics research, this is an important opportunity to tell the Perimeter story and make connections with the international technology space.”

Carena moderated a panel discussion, “Quantum: How Basic Science Can Impact Business,” as part of the trade show proceedings. She was joined on the stage by Norbert Lütkenhaus, Executive Director of the Institute for Quantum Computing, University of Waterloo;  Achim Kempf, Canada Research Chair and Professor of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo and Perimeter Institute Research Associate; and Oliver Riedel, Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering. 

The four panellists highlighted the innovation chain, basic research, and the value of experimentation with expertise in quantum-AI interfaces. Panellists also discussed quantum computing ties to academia and industry, and the importance of increasing international collaboration in quantum technology transfer to industry.  

“We had a vibrant discussion with the panel, and I was able to share that Perimeter researchers are actively exploring ways to address key barriers in quantum computers such as quantum error correction, and pioneering new quantum materials,” says Carena. 

Both Carena and Smith also participated in VIP events on the show’s opening day.

Carena notes participating in the international show has provided opportunities to highlight the unique environment and diverse talent pool at Perimeter to Canadian companies as well as global stakeholders who may be less familiar with the work of theoretical physicists.

“So much of the technology that is being showcased, and the discussions about what is coming, is thanks to theoretical physics breakthroughs,” says Carena. “From quantum computing simulations to quantum communications to quantum sensing and metrology;  it’s important to make the connection that basic science is a vital part of the road toward practical applications in technology, medicine, finance, education, and other fields.”