The United Nations (UN) has proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ). This year-long, worldwide initiative aims to raise public awareness of quantum science, promote international collaboration and inspire innovation to address global challenges. As a proud sponsor of IYQ, the University of Calgary is excited to support and celebrate quantum science and its transformative impact throughout the year.
To mark this historic milestone, UCalgary leaders Dr. Ed McCauley, Dr. Kristin Baetz, Dr. Barry Sanders and Dr. Megan Lee, attended the IYQ kickoff event in early February in Paris, France. The two-day event at the headquarters of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) brought together several hundred participants including diplomats, scientists, entrepreneurs, and educators in a celebration of what quantum physics has done and will do to change our world. UCalgary leaders joined global experts, policymakers, and industry representatives to highlight the potential of quantum research and reaffirm the university's commitment to advancing the field on the world stage.
"The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology highlights the profound impact quantum science has and will have across industries," said Dr. Ed McCauley, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Calgary. "The University of Calgary's quantum ecosystem is poised to drive innovation in every sector from agriculture and life sciences to energy and logistics shaping the future of technology and society."
Throughout 2025, the IYQ organizers will host and facilitate regional, national, and international outreach events, activities, and programming to celebrate and develop learning resources for quantum science, build scientific partnerships that will expand educational and research opportunities in developing countries, and inspire the next generation of diverse quantum pioneers.
"The University of Calgary is making significant contributions to quantum research, education, and industry collaboration. Through investments in Quantum Horizons Alberta, the Master of Quantum Computing program, and Quantum City, UCalgary is supporting the growth of quantum science and technology. With the opening of Quantum City qHub in March, we are creating a dedicated space for innovation and helping position Calgary as a leader in this emerging field" noted Megan Lee, managing director of Quantum City.
As a significant milestone for UCalgary, everyone is invited to take part in the IYQ by raising awareness and inspiring curiosity about quantum science and technology. Through discussions, events, and knowledge sharing, this celebration offers a unique opportunity to engage with and explore the future of quantum technology.
- Engage with the Quantum community at qConnect 2025, Quantum City's signature event taking place Nov. 5-6 in Calgary and one of the IYQ events happening in 2025.
- Visit Research at UCalgary to learn more on how UCalgary is transforming the future through quantum science and technology.
UCalgary is a proud supporting sponsor of the 2025 International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Marking 100 years of quantum mechanics, IYQ aims to raise public awareness of quantum science's impact on all aspects of life. Learn more about our quantum research and teaching at research.ucalgary.ca/quantum.
