Quantum computers and quantum computing are among the most groundbreaking achievements of modern technology. By exploiting quantum phenomena, they offer new ways of solving complex problems that classical computers cannot handle.
From cryptography to particle modelling, this technology’s potential is enormous, and its development could transform many specialised industries. So, what are quantum computers, and how will they affect the increasingly competitive IT industry?
How do quantum computers work?
Understanding the specifics is not the easiest of tasks, requiring knowledge of elementary mathematical theories and information processing. In most home computers, the basic unit of information is a bit, which can take the value of 0 or 1. Quantum computers use qubits, which, in addition to the states 0 and 1, can be prepared in a ‘mixture’ of states called superposition. Qubits also differ from bits in that they utilise additional phenomena, such as entanglement (the connection of the state of one qubit with another) and interference (the mutual influence and modification of qubits).
This means that, in some situations, while traditional computers may take a long time to perform calculations, quantum computers can solve a given problem very quickly. However, this does not mean that quantum computers will replace traditional ones or that we will be able to carry them around with us like smartphones today. “The applications of quantum computing are very specific. They will work well in chemical simulations for discovering new drugs or optimising investment strategies, for example, but not necessarily for browsing the internet or rendering games,” comments Marek Kowalik, Senior Quantum Developer at Capgemini Quantum Lab, an innovation centre operating within Capgemini.
Why is quantum computing the future of IT?
Currently, certain computational problems can only be solved roughly, or not at all, due to the insufficient computing power of available computers. One example is weather forecasting using a complex digital model of the Earth’s atmosphere and surface. The level of complexity of this model makes it impossible to map accurately enough in classical computing centres to simulate an accurate forecast over a long period. This is one area in which quantum computers could achieve a real breakthrough.
The pharmaceutical industry has high hopes for quantum computing. This is an area of development that could have a positive impact on all of us. Designing new drugs requires numerous tests and chemical analyses. Quantum computing enables the effective simulation of complex particles on quantum computers. Marek Kowalik explains that the business value of quantum computing generally arises where a special solution to a large-scale problem is required that would otherwise require significant computing resources, and where a quantum algorithm with better computational complexity than classical methods is available.
Skills of the future
Quantum computing is a technology in its early stages of development and few IT specialists have the necessary skills. Therefore, it presents an opportunity for individuals seeking to stand out in the job market and be part of the next technological revolution. However, currently, only a few universities in Poland offer quantum computing courses. It is therefore worth taking an interest in publicly available tools, such as educational materials ranging from quantum information processing theory to tutorials on implementing simple quantum routines, and software that offers the possibility of simulating quantum environments on a traditional computer.
Quantum computing is a fascinating field, but it is also very demanding due to its complexity. Working with quantum computers requires a unique combination of theoretical and practical knowledge. The theory mainly involves linear algebra, complex numbers, statistics, and quantum mechanics. In practice, experience in traditional programming languages is required, as well as familiarity with quantum toolkits for programmers (e.g. Qiskit), and additional specialisation in areas such as finance or chemical simulations is also necessary. The ability to conduct good research into scientific content and adapt it for business applications is also important. According to Marek Kowalik, the main part of working with quantum computers today is tracking the development of technology and testing its latest achievements.
Specialists are worth their weight in gold
Quantum computers are redefining modern computer science. Although they are currently limited to solving specific problems, the potential of this technology makes a career in this field worth considering. Those specialising in this area will be in high demand in the job market, particularly in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and finance. This means that investing in quantum computing skills will definitely pay off.
