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Calgary/Edmonton, ß÷ßäÉçÇø, June 15, 2023: 

$25 million for new Quantum Horizons ß÷ßäÉçÇø research network

Quantum Horizons ß÷ßäÉçÇø (QHA) is a new $25-million ß÷ßäÉçÇø-wide initiative to expand our foundational knowledge of quantum science and pursue transformational research into the potentials of quantum physics. Initiated by a group of visionary donors, QHA will grow ß÷ßäÉçÇø’s considerable capacity in quantum research through a partnership with the ß÷ßäÉçÇø, the University of Calgary and the University of Lethbridge. 

QHA will bring together world-class scientists to deepen our understanding and unlock the mysteries of quantum mechanics, where the rules of classical physics do not apply. Quantum science studies the properties and behaviours of the very small or very cold building blocks of the universe, exploring the world beyond what we perceive around us. From creating Bose-Einstein condensates at the lowest temperatures in the universe, to understanding the mysteries of spooky action at a distance with entangled particles, quantum is the field of novel discovery.

While there are practical applications today, such as medical imaging, lasers, electron microscopes, and new approaches to computing power and cybersecurity, dedicated foundational science is required to extend the horizons of knowledge in the quantum realm and open untold and unpredictable possibilities. 

Speaking on behalf of the group of donors, Richard Bird said “we are very excited to be partnering with ß÷ßäÉçÇø’s major research universities to bring this new pan-ß÷ßäÉçÇø initiative into existence and continue on the path of having a globally recognized hub of excellence for foundational quantum research based here in ß÷ßäÉçÇø. Quantum science is an increasingly critical area of study around the world and we have the opportunity to establish our province as a key source of research and discoveries in a field which promises to be transformational to the human condition.” Initially joining Mr. Bird as QHA donors are Patrick Daniel, Joanne Cuthbertson and Guy Turcotte, with the expectation that the group will continue to expand as supporters from across Canada join the initiative. 

The initial annual operating budget for QHA will be $5 million spread across the three nodes, committed for a minimum of five years and supported by the donors, the universities and other partners.

"These community leaders have stepped forward to invest in foundational quantum discovery because they understand how critical new knowledge is to ß÷ßäÉçÇø’s future. Quantum Horizons ß÷ßäÉçÇø activates our provincial research ecosystem, leveraging the talent across our universities, and enabling us to elevate and expand our capabilities,” said Dr. Ed McCauley, president and vice-chancellor, University of Calgary. “Creating new knowledge to move society forward is fundamental to the purpose of great research universities.” 

“Quantum Horizons ß÷ßäÉçÇø’s research funding will enable us to recruit more high-calibre research scientists and graduate students in this field,” said Bill Flanagan, president and vice-chancellor, ß÷ßäÉçÇø. “We have a strong history of discovery and research excellence in ß÷ßäÉçÇø. We can build on this history thanks to the visionary philanthropists involved in QHA. Advancing a collaborative quantum research network increases the potential for more made-in-ß÷ßäÉçÇø discoveries that will benefit people worldwide.”

“Quantum research is transforming our world by offering solutions to difficult problems much faster and better, opening up new opportunities in areas like security, finance, drug development, and studying climate change,” said Mike Mahon, president and vice-chancellor, University of Lethbridge. Supporting fundamental research today is absolutely vital to achieve major scientific breakthroughs tomorrow.”

ß÷ßäÉçÇø is already home to quantum research and innovation excellence, and, in partnership with industry, dedicated to growing the quantum tech sector in the province. Funding through Quantum Horizons ß÷ßäÉçÇø is intended to build quantum science capacity in ß÷ßäÉçÇø, by supporting existing expertise and attracting new talent with the goal to recruit a minimum of eight new quantum research professors to ß÷ßäÉçÇø over the next two years along with funding for many postdoctoral scholars and graduate students. 

QHA enables a long-term and sustainable path for ß÷ßäÉçÇø’s leadership in quantum research and innovation, creating impact that will reach far beyond ß÷ßäÉçÇø. 

Website: quantumhorizonsab.ca 

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