Resources for the Quantum Computing Professionals

“…in quantum computing, we seem to be on the threshold of a real revolution—a “quantum” leap—because it is a true frontier beyond classical computing,” IEEE Intelligent Systems,1999.

Quantum computing was formally proposed by Richard Feynman in 1981, who said it could resolve complex problems that classical computers were incapable of. Prior to that, the technology had been under development since the early 1900s. After Feynman’s proposal in 1981, it still took another 10 years and the introduction of the Shor Algorithm for people to believe in the advancement. Its reputation was then built; quantum computing, an emerging technology so powerful that it could potentially break asymmetric cryptography with stellar efficiency.

Now, investments of billions of dollars have been made in an effort to grow and expand the field’s research. The IEEE Computer Society Quantum Computing Report states, “What is assumed (witness billions of dollars in global investments) is that functional and pervasive quantum computing will be realized. When it is, it will offer world-changing advances over classical computing in terms of the speed and power with which it will help solve both routine and currently intractable problems.”

The field of quantum computing is on the verge of creating new possibilities as the race for quantum supremacy commences. As the technology becomes scalable, and its applications become more accessible, the quantum job market and society are expected to shift. Key players such as IBM Quantum, Google Quantum AI, and Azure Quantum are at the forefront of this endeavor.

Back to Top

Quantum computing leverages quantum mechanics, utilizing qubits instead of the classical bits that traditional computers use. As opposed to the binary formatting of classical bits (0 or 1), qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously— a groundbreaking discovery known as superposition. This unique power enables quantum computers to execute complex calculations at a significantly accelerated pace compared to traditional computers.

Back to Top

Learn More About Where Quantum Computing is headed at IEEE Quantum Week!

The power and capabilities of quantum computers are advanced, though they do have challenges. It may come as a surprise but quantum systems are very sensitive, and their success highly depends on their environment. For example, they must be below -459 degrees Fahrenheit at all times. Sensibilities, such as this, make it a challenge to maintain the fragile quantum state needed for computation while enhancing scalability. Furthermore, designing complex and specialized hardware that is compatible with quantum computing software is a major challenge.

Factors such as noise, vibrations, and truly any imperfection in their environment can put quantum computers at risk for errors. Similar to those made for classical computers, however, resilient error correction codes and algorithms can mitigate the impact these errors will have on computation. This is known as Quantum Error Correction and aims to fix issues with three steps: detection, decoding (locating), and correction, which will restore any flawed qubit to its original state.

As one can imagine, developing a large-scale quantum computer with just the right amount of qubits is no easy task. As the number of qubits increases, so does the complexity of controlling and maintaining their state. However, to solve real-world problems, scalability is vital. In addition to error correction, other methods can help the technology achieve this. This includes better Qubit Connectivity which controls how the quibits interact with each other. This method allows for efficient quantum operations and information processing, thus making scalability more possible.

Back to Top

Learn More About Where Quantum Computing is headed at IEEE Quantum Week!

“…this computing alternative seems to be promising given the inherent features of superposition, coherence, entanglement, measurement among others, which would lead to more time-efficient parallel computing,” IEEE Computer Society Distinguished Visitor Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil. Siddhartha Bhattacharyya, Principal of Rajnagar Mahavidyalaya.

While the theoretical implications are truly groundbreaking, the true impact of quantum computing lies within its ability to solve real-world problems. From cryptography to optimization and supply chain management, AI, financial modeling, and healthcare, quantum computing is poised to revolutionize diverse domains, providing innovative solutions to some of the most complex challenges we face today.

Back to Top

Learn More About Where Quantum Computing is headed at IEEE Quantum Week!

• • By using codes, cryptography is a technique used to encrypt data enabling it to only be read and comprehended by a chosen user. Despite the fact that quantum computers can defeat many cryptographic algorithms which protect sensitive data, they can also provide higher security, such as post-quantum cryptography and quantum key distribution. This means that quantum computers can create cryptographic systems for classical computers that are so secure that not even other quantum computers can hack.

• More Resources:
  • A Reliable Security Alternative: Quantum Cryptography
  • Post Quantum Cryptography: A Review of Techniques, Challenges and Standardizations
  • NIST’s Post-Quantum Cryptography Standards Competition

• By improving warehouse management, demand forecasting, inventory control, and route optimization, quantum computing can improve logistics within supply chain management for many businesses. Algorithms built for optimization help perform these tasks and quantum computers potentially have the power to provide them faster than supercomputers can, according to Sandia LabNews.

• More Resources:
  • Quantum Computing Methods for Supply Chain Management
  • Quantum Computing for Supply Chain Finance
  • Genetic Algorithm Based Quantum Circuits Optimization for Quantum Computing Simulation
    

• Optimization is not limited to specific industries; its influence extends across various sectors, with its presence amplified by the widespread adoption of Artificial Intelligence. Quantum computers have the potential to enhance key areas within AI such as natural language processing, image recognition, and neural network optimization. Quantum computing holds the potential to make significant contributions within this field. As stated by Towards Data Science, “As the demand for bigger, better, and more accurate AI and ML accelerates, standard computers will be pushed to the limits of their capabilities.”

• More Resources:
  • Quantum Cognition: A Cognitive Architecture for Human-AI and In-Memory Computing
  • Quantum Topology Optimization via Quantum Annealing
  • Quantum Computing and Deep Learning Working Together to Solve Optimization Problems

Let us know you’re interested in AI Quantum Technical Community. Sign up for Alerts.

• Financial modeling is the process of building an abstract picture of a real-world financial circumstance. By capturing the intricate nuances and dynamics of financial situations, it’s essential and used to develop well-informed financial decisions. According to IBM, a leader within the field, quantum computing can improve portfolio diversification, rebalance portfolio investments so they’re goal oriented, and streamline trading settlements so they’re cost effective.

• More Resources:
  • Risk Analysis Based on Quantum Theory
  • Credit Risk Analysis Using Quantum Computers
  • Quantum Computing for Supply Chain Finance

• The healthcare industry can benefit greatly from enhancements made by quantum computing. For example, the technology can be applied to improve precision medicine by reviewing datasets such as medical records and genomic information. As a result, better diagnoses, tailored treatment plans, and an overall improved patient experience can be made. In addition to optimization, medical imaging, and cybersecurity, quantum computing is expected to transform this sector.

• More Resources:
  • Quantum-Assisted Activation for Supervised Learning in Healthcare-based Intrusion Detection Systems
  • Quantum Machine Learning for Audio Classification with Applications to Healthcare
  • Trust Management for Ubiquitous Healthcare

With the technology’s many capabilities and its potential impact in our world, its economic growth and expansion are on the rise. The International Data Corporation (IDC) expects a 50.9% annual growth rate up until 2027. The industry of quantum computing is expected to be worth $8.6 billion (USD) in the near future. Alongside that value are the investments which are expected to reach $16.4 billion (USD). Though quantum computing hasn’t gone commercial quite yet, “…the industry will pour billions of dollars into making the technology commonplace and ready for mass adoption…,” stated the IDC.

Back to Top

Although these investments call for a high demand of professionals who specialize in quantum computing, there’s a short supply. In our quantum careers report, the IEEE Computer Society Quantum Computing Report, states that for every three jobs, only one qualified candidate was available within the field. A career within this specialty offers the opportunity to be at the forefront of developing new technology. If this is a field you’re thinking about entering, now is the time.

“Advances in quantum hardware and applications of quantum computing in almost every relatable area of science, technology, medicine, and business have ushered in a host of exciting career options for interested researchers and practitioners. Thus, this field promises to be a reliable career option for aspiring scientists and researchers with relevant expertise,” said Prof. Dr. Bhattacharyya.

The emerging field of quantum computing offers diverse opportunities all meeting between a collection of various disciplines. Before embarking on a path, it is crucial to carefully consider the appropriate educational route that will push a career in the quantum computing domain. Initiatives like IEEE Quantum provide resources and advice related to the topic. According to the suggestions, a basic understanding of physics, mathematics, hardware, and software is essential for individuals aspiring to enter this field. Additionally, the IEEE Quantum Podcast Series is an outlet that provides an insider view of the industry, featuring experts within the field who share their expertise and insights.

• • • Read More About IEEE Quantum’s Education Services
    • Access the IEEE Quantum Podcast Series

  ---

• Software Engineers with a strong understanding of matrix multiplication, complex numbers, and basic probability theory can smoothly transition into this field– no PhD required. Quantum software engineers develop high-level system modules, testing, and validation tools for the hardware that’s built.

• • • Skills: High level mathematics, programming, physics
    • Degree: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, chemistry mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field
    • Networking Opportunities & Research:
      • IEEE Quantum Week
      • Technical Community on Software Engineering
      • IEEE Transactions on Quantum Computing
      • Technical Community on Intelligent Informatics

• Quantum computer architects are integral for developing software for quantum computers and building scalable systems. While understanding the connections that classical computers and quantum computers may have, they create interfaces, optimize programs, and test performance to ensure the software’s framework is working correctly.

• • • Skills: Mathematics, physics, Quantum computer architectures, algorithms.
    • Degree: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, quantum information science (some universities offer special courses related to this field.)
    • Networking Opportunities & Research:
      • IEEE Quantum Week
      • Technical Community on Computer Architecture
      • Special Issue on Quantum Computing, Micro

• Researchers within this specialty focus on discovering more ways that quantum computing can be improved or applied. They identify any recurrent issues that may be solved with quantum effects and create the foundation for new programs. This includes developing new algorithms and others that are currently in use.

• • • Skills:Mathematical modeling, physics, programming, problem solving, and algorithm design plus analysis.
    • Degree: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, quantum information science (some universities offer special courses related to this field.)
    • Networking Opportunities & Research:
      • IEEE Quantum Week
      • Technical Community on Scalable Computing
      • IEEE Transactions on Emerging Technologies

The overall median salary range for quantum computing engineers in the US is $132K USD. It’s important to take note that this is a broad estimate and may differentiate depending on one’s country of origin, company of choice, and specific focus within quantum computing. View estimates for other countries on salaryexpert.com

Back to Top

As with all emerging technologies, the conversation of ethics is crucial. While quantum computing has many potential benefits it can add to society, there are implications that raise concerns. The biggest challenge is the technology’s greatest strength; the powerful ability to solve complex problems. If misused, this technology has the potential to hack sensitive information and data putting society’s privacy and security at risk. Further stated by IBM, “…quantum computers will be able to break some of the most widely-used security protocols in the world.”

In response to this issue, they developed a ‘Quantum Safe Roadmap’ packed with tools and methods that can help organizations navigate security within the newly emerging quantum landscape.

Additionally, the IEEE Standards Association has put the Quantum Standards & Activities initiative into action. This includes 10 standards and protocols for network security, algorithms, the technology’s architecture, and more. Efforts such as these help guide society towards a safe and secure quantum future.

Back to Top

Manish K. Gupta has international and interdisciplinary working experience of more than 28 years in 8 countries: USA, Canada, Germany, Singapore, New Zealand, South Korea, Saudi Arabia and India. He is the founder of DA-IICT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Incubation (a section 8 not for profit company) which has incubated 19 start-ups/companies from 2007. Dr. Gupta is also the founder of Guptalab, which has produced 11 well known softwares in DNA nanotechnology. His DNA storage project was shortlisted as one of the top 5 innovations for the Prime Minister (India and Israel) demo at the India-Israel Innovation Initiative, in January 2018.

Dr. Gupta is a professor at Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information and Communication Technology, Gandhinagar. He has published more than 37 papers in international journals and conferences. His research interests include mathematics and its elegant applications in emerging technologies: DNA digital data storage, DNA computing, chemical computing, coding theory, quantum computing, quantum machine learning, quantum error correction, cryptography, quantum algorithms, synthetic biology, DNA nanotechnology, and bioinformatics.

Dr. Siddhartha Bhattacharyya [FRSA, FIET (UK), FIEI, FIETE, LFOSI, SMIEEE, SMACM, SMAAIA, SMIETI, LMCSI, LMISTE] is currently the Principal of Rajnagar Mahavidyalaya, Birbhum, India. He is also serving as a scientific advisor of Algebra Universty College, Zagreb, Croatia. Prior to this, he was a Professor at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, India. He also served as the Principal of RCC Institute of Information Technology, Kolkata, India. He has served VSB Technical University of Ostrava, Czech Republic as a Senior Research Scientist. He is the recipient of several coveted national and international awards. He received the Honorary Doctorate Award (D. Litt.) from The University of South America and the SEARCC International Digital Award ICT Educator of the Year in 2017.

He was appointed as the ACM Distinguished Speaker for the tenure 2018-2020. He has been appointed as the IEEE Computer Society Distinguished Visitor for the tenure 2021-2023. He is a co-author of 6 books and the co-editor of 98 books and has more than 400 research publications in international journals and conference proceedings to his credit. He is the founding President of the Asia-Pacific Artificial Intelligence Association (AAIA), Kolkata Branch. He is also the Chair of IEEE Computational Intelligence Society, Kolkata Chapter. His research interests include hybrid intelligence, pattern recognition, multimedia data processing, social networks, and quantum computing.

Back to Top