IQT Vancouver/Pacific Rim Update: Christian Sarra-Bournet, Executive Director of Institute Quantique (IQ) at the Universite de Sherrooke in Quebec is a 2024 Speaker
The IQT Vancouver/Pacific Rim conference in June 2024 will feature Christian Sarra-Bournet, the executive director of the Institut quantique (IQ) at Université de Sherbrooke since its foundation in 2015. Sarra-Bournet has played a pivotal role in the establishment and growth of IQ, a leading research community that unites over 300 members specializing in quantum materials, quantum information, and quantum engineering. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in positioning the Institut Quantique as a cornerstone of quantum research and education in Canada and globally.
Christian Sarra-Bournet was one of the key figures behind the $33.5M “From Quantum Science to Quantum Technologies” initiative, an ambitious project that was one of five selected in Canada for the inaugural competition of the Canada Research First Excellence Fund. This initiative underscores Canada’s commitment to advancing quantum science and technology, highlighting Sarra-Bournet’s significant contributions to the field.
Under his guidance, the Institut Quantique has achieved notable milestones, including establishing the first IBM Quantum Innovation Center in Canada, which serves as a hub for quantum computing research and collaboration. Additionally, under his leadership, Université de Sherbrooke launched the first francophone bachelor’s degree in quantum information science in the world, demonstrating a strong commitment to educating the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers.
Christian Sarra-Bournet’s involvement extends beyond academia and Institut Quantique into the quantum industry and innovation ecosystem. He serves on the governing board of DistriQ, the Quantum Innovation Zone of Sherbrooke, and the governing board of QVStudio, a quantum startup accelerator. These roles underscore his commitment to fostering a vibrant quantum technology sector in Sherbrooke and beyond, facilitating the translation of quantum research into practical applications and startup ventures.
Holding dual Ph.D. degrees in materials engineering from Université Laval, Canada, and in electrical engineering from Université de Toulouse, France, Sarra-Bournet brings a rich interdisciplinary background to his work in the quantum field. This diverse expertise enables him to bridge the gap between quantum science and engineering, fostering innovative research and training programs that prepare students and researchers to tackle the challenges and opportunities of quantum technologies.
At the IQT Vancouver/Pacific Rim conference, Christian Sarra-Bournet is expected to share insights into the development and achievements of the Institut Quantique, the impact of collaborative initiatives like the IBM Quantum Innovation Center, and the importance of education and training in quantum information science. His presentation will likely highlight the collaborative efforts required to advance quantum technologies, from fundamental research to commercialization and industry partnerships.
IQT Vancouver · Pacific Rim 2024: Quantum Computing, Communications and Security — Pathways to Real World Solutions.
With Vancouver as North America’s gateway to the Pacific Rim, IQT and the Quantum Algorithms Institute are bringing together partners across North America and Asia to showcase the state of quantum computing, communications, and security. This international conference moves beyond the quantum hype to profile quantum computing, communications technologies, and quantum expertise in real-world settings. Sessions will highlight practical applications of quantum algorithms and networking in pharmaceuticals, transportation, finance, and more industries. Attendees will include industry and government executives, end-users, and investors who will learn about the latest developments in these technologies, pathways for companies to get ready for quantum solutions, and ethics and policy considerations in this fast-growing industry.
Register for the IQT Vancouver/Pacific Rim Conference here.
