Quantum science reveals Lisbon’s history at EQTC 2024
The first-ever showcase of quantum archaeology results, live demos of quantum communications, top European startups, and a quantum finance lab are all on show at this year’s European Quantum Technologies Conference (EQTC).
A treasure trove of high-tech firsts will be on show at Europe’s biggest quantum technologies conference, which will be held in Lisbon from 18th until 20th November 2024.
With the tag-line “Building Europe’s quantum future together”, this year’s three-day event promises to give visitors an exclusive look at the world’s first quantum-powered archaeology survey, live demonstrations of quantum communications, and a showcase of Europe’s most promising quantum startups. Meanwhile, a quantum finance lab run by the European Investment Bank will provide exclusive insights into EU financing products designed for European quantum companies.
Unlocking Lisbon's History
Visitors at this year’s EQTC event will be able to see a demonstration of the quantum gravimeters, which have recently been tested in the heart of Lisbon’s Baixa Pombalina district to reveal hidden structures and artefacts dating back to the Iron Age and the Phoenician presence in the city.
Measuring tiny differences in the gravity of objects underground, quantum gravimeters are sophisticated devices that can map out what lies beneath the surface without any digging. By detecting changes in the gravitational pull, they create a “gravity map” that shows where denser or lighter materials are buried, making them extremely useful for spotting hidden configurations, tunnels, or even ancient ruins.
A city with over 3,000 years of continuous urban history, Lisbon was selected as the perfect testing ground for quantum gravimetry. Researchers from the Portuguese Quantum Institute, the Lisbon City Council Archaeology Centre (CAL), and French company Exail conducted a three-day exploration of the Baixa Pombalina district.
EQTC 2024 attendees can delve into the initial findings from the Lisbon gravimetry tests. These results mark an exciting first step in archaeology and quantum technology; they highlight the potential for quantum science to extend beyond labs and into real-world and cultural explorations, with much more still to come.
Europe's Brightest Minds
The conference will also feature demonstrations of quantum communications and a showcase of Europe’s most promising quantum startups.
EQTC 2024 will bring together Europe’s brightest minds in quantum to discuss the latest in quantum computing, artificial intelligence, quantum sensing, and more. This year’s invited panellists, chairs, and illustrious keynote speakers represent a range of disciplines, from startup founders to renowned quantum scientists, including:
Dr. Laura Mančinska (Associate Professor in Quantum Computing and Information - University of Copenhagen)
Dr. Morgan Mitchell (CREA Professor of Quantum Optics - The Institute of Photonic Sciences)
Christoph Marquardt (Chair of Optical Quantum Technologies - FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light)
Amal Kasry (Chief of Section for Basic Science, Research, Innovation and Engineering, UNESCO)
Dr. Ignacio Cirac (Director at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics).
Stephanie Wehner (Director of the Quantum Internet Alliance; TUDelft)
Julien Laurat (Professor of Physics, Sorbonne University).
The Quantum Finance Lab, run by the European Investment Bank (EIB), will give attendees involved in the European quantum industry the opportunity to discover financing options specifically tailored for European quantum companies, engage directly with product advisors and gain valuable insights from successful past recipients.
The event offers the chance for industry participants to connect with peers and experts to expand their networks and share knowledge. Workshops will provide Q&A sessions, networking opportunities, and demonstrations on how to pitch to VCs.
Why attend EQTC?
This year’s event will provide a glimpse into how this technology could reshape industries like archaeology, finance, and secure communications. Whether you’re a history buff, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the future, EQTC offers a first-hand experience of extraordinary discoveries happening right here in Europe.
With so much at stake, the EQTC is a must-attend for anyone interested in the future of technology and its practical applications. The conference serves as Europe’s official quantum event, organised by the Quantum Flagship on behalf of the European Commission and hosted this year by the Portuguese Quantum Institute.
Register here to attend the event or see the website for more details.
