Building bridges between research, incubation, industry and teaching: this is the purpose of the new chair in quantum communication created in Geneva and headed by Professor Wolfgang Tittel. The chair, which is the result of a partnership between University of Geneva (UniGe) and Constructor University (CU) will focus its activities on quantum information technologies, such as data transfer, quantum memories and cryptography. “We are thrilled to merge our shared vision in establishing an internationally recognized quantum chair with the goal to advance academic offerings and explore applications of these fascinating technologies across the field,” noted Prof Yves Flückiger, Rector of UniGe.

“Partnership with UniGe is the first step of building Constructor University’s global institute of advanced studies. CU chooses Geneva to further develop its quantum research operations, as Geneva is already a hub for quantum science and technology in Switzerland, with Geneva Quantum Centre (GQC) of UniGe being its major actor,” commented Dr Serg Bell, founder of Constructor University and chairman of the board. The new chair is based at University of Geneva, within the Faculty of Science. Constructor University will cover 50 percent of the operating costs. It will also provide an initial investment of 1.5 million francs to finance a new laboratory dedicated to its activities. The creation of this chair is the first step in this collaboration which commits UniGe and Constructor University for a period of ten years. They plan to create other specific chairs dedicated to quantum physics in the years to come.

Quantum physics research is driving a revolution, particularly in the field of information: researchers are currently exploiting quantum properties to create telecommunication networks that allow data to be transferred in an ultra-secure manner. These same properties are being used to develop detectors for light particles (photons) of unprecedented sensitivity. UniGe is the first institution to have carried out quantum communications outside the protected environment of the laboratory, using optical fibres. It has also enabled the creation of the largest private company in the field, ID Quantique, active in cryptography and founded by physicists Nicolas Gisin, Hugo Zbinden and Grégoire Ribordy.