Science: Italy and Canada strengthen their alliance in quantum technologies

Italy and Canada have signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening cooperation in the field of quantum science and technologies. The agreements involve, on the Italian side, the National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), the Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), and the National Research Council (CNR); on the Canadian side, the Universities of Toronto and Waterloo and the Perimeter Institute. The two MoUs aim to strengthen collaboration in theoretical physics and quantum technologies through the sharing of expertise and research infrastructures, the development of joint projects, and exchange programmes for students and researchers.

 The first agreement, signed by INFN, CNR and ENEA together with the Centre for Quantum Information and Quantum Control at the University of Toronto (CQIQC), establishes a general framework for cooperation in theoretical research and the development of quantum technologies. The activities envisaged include, in particular, exchange programmes for research staff and studies based on the quantum simulation of complex systems.

 The second Memorandum, involving the Italian research institutions, the Institute for Quantum Computing at the University of Waterloo (IQC) and the Perimeter Institute, focuses on cooperation in quantum technologies and theoretical physics. The agreement includes research and development activities in the fields of quantum technologies and nanodevices.

 “These cooperation agreements represent an important step in the internationalisation of Italian research in quantum technologies,” said ENEA President Francesca Mariotti. “For ENEA, which has expertise in quantum metrology and advanced security devices, collaboration with leading international partners opens up concrete opportunities for the next generation of researchers. Their work will help strengthen Italy’s position in this strategic field, with significant potential applications in advanced computing and precision sensing”.