Quantum technologies
Quantum technologies encompass a broad range of applications and disciplines that leverage the principles of quantum mechanics to develop new devices, systems and protocols. These technologies are applied in any field that explores and utilises quantum states for various purposes.
The UPC currently has 9 research groups specialising in quantum technologies and 3 additional groups with an emerging interest in the field, along with 2 specific research centres. These centres develop innovative projects and collaborate with prestigious institutions. The UPC also offers a wide range of educational programmes, including bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, postgraduate courses, doctoral programmes and is a foundational partner of Catalonia Quantum Academy.
Highlighted projects
The future of quantum computing
The QUADRATURE project aims to advance quantum computing by building larger and more efficient systems with thousands or even millions of qubits. Since quantum computing has not yet surpassed classical computing in solving practical problems, the project proposes a new architecture that connects multiple quantum cores through coherent, wireless links operating at extremely low temperatures. The goal is to demonstrate these technologies and achieve performance that is ten times greater than current levels.
Faster, more efficient and more secure networks
The ALLEGRO project aims to create next-generation optical networks that are extremely fast, efficient and secure. The goal is to reach ultra-high speeds—up to 10 terabits per second in devices and 1 petabit per second via fibre optics—while reducing energy consumption and costs, and ensuring data security through advanced technologies such as intelligent transceivers, optical switches and post-quantum cryptography. AI is also used to automatically manage and adapt the network to user needs.
Paving the way to 6G
The sixth generation of mobile networks is closer than it seems. The TRAINER project aims to build an intelligent and sustainable network for future generations beyond 5G, laying the groundwork for 6G. These networks will need to deliver much higher speeds, ultra-low latency and high reliability, while managing dynamic and complex loads. To achieve this, TRAINER integrates artificial intelligence and machine learning at all levels of the network to enhance management, service orchestration and signal processing, making the network adaptive and efficient for future challenges.
Quantum technologies research organisations at the UPC
- CBA - Sistemes de Comunicacions i Arquitectures de Banda Ampla
- GAPCOMB - Geometric, Algebraic and Probabilistic Combinatorics
- GCO - Grup de Comunicacions Òptiques
- SPCOM - Processament del Senyal i Comunicacions
- CCQM - Condensed, Complex and Quantum Matter Group
- LOGPROG - Lògica i Programació
- ISG-MAK - Information Security Group - Mathematics Applied to Cryptography
Research applications in quantum technologies
Quantum computing
Quantum computers, which process information using qubits or quantum bits, are being developed by companies such as IBM, Google and Microsoft, as well as start-ups like Rigetti and IonQ. Although still in its infancy, quantum computing is emerging as a disruptive technology capable of solving certain problems that would remain unsolvable even for today’s most powerful classical supercomputers, no matter how many hundreds of years they were run. Significant progress has already been made in increasing the number of qubits.
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Quantum communication
Quantum communication ensures the secure transmission of information using quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols. Quantum encryption techniques based on entanglement enable the creation of secure communication channels that are resistant to eavesdropping and hacking. Development efforts focus on QKD protocols that allow the secure distribution of encryption keys based on the principles of quantum mechanics and long-distance quantum communication via satellites.
Quantum sensing
Quantum sensors leverage quantum properties to achieve high precision and sensitivity. Examples include atomic clocks, which provide extremely accurate timekeeping used in navigation systems, telecommunications and scientific research, and magnetometers, which measure magnetic fields with high sensitivity and are useful in fields such as geological studies and medical diagnoses.
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