ERFURT – It is a technology from which diverse applications are expected, for example, in the use of future robots in industry, in the improvement of medications and cancer therapies, or even in eavesdropping-proof, encrypted data transmission: According to experts, quantum technologies possess manifold potential that must be transferred from basic to applied research in the coming years. "Quantum Technologies – Scientific Toy or Economically Relevant?" – this was the title of the guest lecture given today, Monday, April 24, by Prof. Dr. Andreas Tünnermann, Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering (IOF), as part of the 15th Erfurt Technology Dialogue in Erfurt. "The recently opened possibility of controlling individual quanta has further multiplied the application options," the researcher said at the conference. "This means that modern economies today face a situation comparable to that of the 1960s, when the digital revolution began – we are on the threshold of a new technological revolution!"
The potential of quantum technology has been known for some time – experts described the difference between conventional high-performance computers and quantum computers years ago as "the difference between a supersonic jet and a zeppelin." And development in this field is progressing rapidly. It is no coincidence, therefore, that quantum technologies were chosen as the topic for this year's Erfurt Technology Dialogue, as this event format aims to provide a platform for discussing current, future-oriented research fields and innovations. "Quantum technologies are a key to the future. Controlling and harnessing quantum mechanics will elevate technological developments to a new level, for example in the fields of medicine and IT. But this will only succeed if research results can also be translated into concrete applications. The Erfurt Technology Dialogue is an excellent, proven forum for this, enabling mutual exchange," said Dr. Katja Böhler, State Secretary for Research, Innovation and Economic Development in the Thuringian Ministry of Economic Affairs, in her opening address at the conference. Erfurt's Mayor Andreas Bausewein also addressed the guests at the COMCENTER Brühl with a welcoming speech. "The potential of quantum technologies in the areas of communication, computing, sensor technology, and imaging dominates the technological debates about the future and offers opportunities for medium-sized companies to conquer new markets, to make them future-proof and economically relevant – the future holds enormous possibilities for us," he explained.
Professor Andreas Tünnermann's presentation provided attendees with a wealth of ideas and inspiration for a lively discussion during the evening get-together. For LEG Managing Director Sabine Wosche, this collaboration is a prerequisite for the continued successful economic development of the Free State of Thuringia: "Thuringia has a high level of growth and innovation – if we want to maintain and expand this, we can only do it together! Due to the pandemic, the Technology Dialogue could not be held as an in-person event for several years, so it was all the more gratifying that the opportunity for face-to-face discussions was now available again. This event series will continue to be an important platform for entrepreneurs and researchers!"
Background Erfurt Technology Dialogue
The Erfurt Research and Industry Center (FIZ) organizes the themed evenings. The state capital of Erfurt, together with the Thuringian Ministry for Economic Affairs, Science and Digital Society (TMWWDG) and LEG Thüringen supports the annual Erfurt Technology Dialogues. Researchers and business leaders use this opportunity to exchange ideas on current topics. Based on keynote presentations by renowned experts, the lecture series allows all interested participants to learn about new developments and discuss them.
