The QuantERA Strategic Conference 2024 – a premier event of the QuantERA programme hosted by Quantum Delta NL – took place on 24–25 September in Amsterdam. This two-day event brought together the worlds of quantum technology and research funding. QuantERA grant holders, representatives of research funding organisations, policymakers, and industry experts all gathered in Startup Village of Amsterdam Science Park – an inspiring setting for vibrant discussions on quantum science and emerging technologies.

Day one began with informal networking over lunch, followed by an official opening by Julia Feddersen of Quantum Delta NL. Feddersen welcomed all participants and introduced the conference programme, highlighting the importance of cooperation. The opening ceremony featured speeches by Philippe Bouyer and Konrad Banaszek.

Three keynote lectures followed. Christian Trefzger of the European Commission provided an update on EU developments, emphasising the important role of QuantERA in Europe’s quantum ecosystem. Harry Buhrman shared insights on the growing field of quantum computing, giving an example of successful knowledge transfer from academia to industry. Laure Le Bars then discussed the rise of the European quantum industry, highlighting its expanding role on the global stage.

The first panel explored paths towards commercialisation of quantum technologies, with experts Andrea G. Rodriguez, Anna Kamińska, Thierry Botter, Kees Eijkel, and Joost van Heijden deliberating about the many opportunities and challenges of QT development. The afternoon closed with two parallel project presentation panels focusing on quantum metrology, sensing, and imaging as well as quantum simulation and information sciences.

With renewed energy, conference attendees began day two with parallel sessions on quantum communication and quantum computation, featuring presentations from QuantERA-funded projects from the calls 2019 and 2021. Project representatives offered a glimpse into their work, showing significant progress and fascinating research results.

The morning sessions were followed by two panels: “Empowering Women in Quantum: Driving Diversity,” which addressed the crucial topic of gender equality in tech research. Caiseal Beardow welcomed to the stage Elisabeth Giacobino, Servaas Kokkelmans, Judith Kreukels, Zala Lenarčič, and Kirsten Stademann, who shared personal experiences and insights on creating a more inclusive quantum community.

The second panel, moderated by Benjamin Frisch, focused on the intersection of quantum research and society. Philipp Kammerlander, Clare Shelley-Egan, Florence Quist, and Joseph Westwood examined the societal impacts of quantum advancements, and how research funding and policymaking shape – and are shaped by – scientific progress.

The next item on the agenda were two final parallel project presentation sessions, offering attendees a comprehensive insight into the progress and impact of QuantERA-funded projects.

The QuantERA Strategic Conference 2024 concluded with closing remarks from Konrad Banaszek and Julia Feddersen. Banaszek expressed his hope that QuantERA would continue to serve as an incubator for new ideas, which – by providing strong support to fundamental science – will further stimulate groundbreaking research in the quantum field. Both speakers conveyed their heartfelt gratitude to all participants, extending sincere thanks for the valuable insights and active engagement.

The entire QuantERA Team extend our sincere thanks to all grant recipients, project evaluators, research funding partners, and distinguished guests who contributed to the success of the QuantERA Strategic Conference 2024. We eagerly anticipate future collaborations as we continue to shape the quantum technology landscape. A heartfelt thank you also goes to Quantum Delta NL for their generous hospitality and support, making us feel right at home in the beautiful city of Amsterdam!

Browse our event photo gallery, posters, and project presentations to relive the highlights of the event!