Jim Kafka, MKS Emeritus Fellow and 2025 Optica President, moderated a Plenary and Q&A session with Barbara Goldstein (NIST) and Jonathan Legh-Smith (UKQuantum) as part of the celebration of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.??#QuantumResearch #QuantumTechonology #Laser
Why is quantum so important? We sat down with Barbara Goldstein (National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)) and Jonathan Legh-Smith MBE (UKQuantum) at the Optica Leadership Conference to discuss current research, future developments in the industry, and how quantum technology can address some of the world's most significant challenges. In the first installment of the Optica Distinguished Lecture Series on Quantum Science and Technology for #IYQ2025, Goldstein highlighted NIST's efforts to shrink quantum technology so that researchers can "Take NIST" with them. She also explained the benefits of shrinking precision metrology on a suite of chip-scale, quantum-based sensors, which could enhance a variety of quantum applications. Why should industry and research collaborate? Legh-Smith, the Executive Director at UKQuantum, shared insights into the UK National Quantum Strategy. The strategy outlines missions focused on how quantum sensing can improve healthcare, how to leverage quantum technology for economic, social, and security benefits, and the establishment of a national and international regulatory framework to foster innovation and ensure the ethical use of quantum advancements. Image 1: 2025 Optica President Jim Kafka moderates a Q&A with Barbara Goldstein and Jonathan Legh-Smith. Image 2: 2024 Optica President Gerd Leuchs at the Q&A. Learn more about the International Year of Quantum: https://bit.ly/3Fg1Ha2 #QuantumCurious #Quantum #YearOfQuantum