New range of careers in quantum computing

Generally, the word ‘quantum’ is synonymous with quantity or size. It is also a technical term and signifies the smallest discrete unit of a physical entity. To explain, a quantum of light is known as a photon, and a quantum of electricity is an electron.

Quantum physics has now emerged as a significant branch of physics. German physicist Max Planck is credited with introducing the concept of quantum mechanics in physics in 1901. The history of quantum computing goes back to 1982, starting with Richard Feynman. Much of the progress in quantum computing has taken place in recent years, though the domain is still evolving.

Quantum computing is different from classical computing. We have become used to working with smartphones, laptops, and desktops. All of these rely on tiny chips made from semiconductors to perform their functions. You might have heard that India wants to become a leader in producing semiconductor chips, which are in great demand worldwide. Semiconductor chips are made of materials that conduct electricity in some but not all situations.

The chips store and process numbers, adding, subtracting, multiplying, etc. These calculations are performed by manipulating ‘bits’ of information. Each bit holds either 0 or 1. From here, a major difference between standard computing and Quantum computing starts. Quantum computers work differently and rely on a quantum bit known as a qubit.

The theory

Quantum computing takes into account the fact that a single object, when it is either extremely small or extremely cold, can behave like two separate objects at the same time. This behaviour makes building a circuit with a combination of 0 and 1 possible. As a result, two qubits can hold four values at once. As the number of qubits increases, it becomes exponentially more capable. Qubit is like a spinning coin. Normally, a coin can be either a head or a tail.

When a coin is tossed until it settles down, it remains in a different situation every fraction of the time. While classical computing may consider only heads and tails, quantum computing may study and analyse every situation of a tossed coin. This is an analogy to explain the possibilities of quantum computing.

In a classical computer, only one key can be tried simultaneously. A quantum computer is akin to a vault with a million keys, which can be used simultaneously and facilitated by qubits.

Even the largest supercomputers cannot match the power of quantum computers, which are way faster and smarter than classical computers. Their speed and applications hold immense potential. Research is developing still more sophisticated chips to strengthen quantum computing. Microsoft has unveiled Majorana 1, a quantum chip made of an entirely new material.

Another big player is Google. Its Quantum AI team has shown similar progress on time crystals, a new type of many-body phase of matter that could oscillate indefinitely without heating up. The many-body phase of matter has enabled researchers to access new types of phases of matter and probe systems of many quantum particles in completely new regimes.

Quantum computing can bring faster solutions to complex business problems. It can accelerate drug development, and quantum-enhanced AI models could enable earlier disease detection. In finance, quantum technology can help optimise financial portfolios and detect fraudulent transactions. Combined with machine learning, it can lead to more accurate weather forecasting, facilitating better preparedness for extreme weather events.

Quantum computing also has its role in logistics and supply chain management, wherein it may help speed up the transportation of goods from one place to another. This efficiency and route optimisation contribute to saving time and fuel consumption. Quantum computing principles are being applied to secure digital communication and keep cyber attackers away. Cybersecurity is an area that is going to see extensive reliance on quantum mechanics applications.

In many ways, quantum computing is considered exclusive and unique, yet its various promises have yet to be unfolded. Those ready to work in hardcore computing may consider a career in this domain. A solid technology, mathematics, or physics background is a basic requirement. A master's degree is preferable. Those who have already been working in conventional computing have the opportunity to move to quantum computing, as there is some common ground.

Functions and opportunities

Broad functions under quantum computing include algorithm design and development, chip development, software development (coding, testing, etc.), and project management. After spending time on one or more of these, a particular specialisation can be chosen.

At its present stage, quantum computing needs more researchers, so one may pursue this subject for a PhD, or if one already has a Ph.D. in a relevant branch, one may continue one's research journey on quantum computing.

Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, Pune, and IITs at Mumbai, Chennai, Jodhpur, and Mandi have centres for quantum computing. A few others have this subject in the computer science department. Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, offers an M.Tech in quantum computing.

TCS and IIT, Mumbai, are collaborating to develop India’s first Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager. The government of India has established the National Quantum Mission with a budget of over Rs 6,000 crores. The mission aims to make India one of the leading nations in developing quantum technologies and applications. Many big and small IT companies and start-ups are involved in quantum computing projects.

So, a lot is happening in the world of quantum computing, and there are opportunities to be a part of it. There are free online introductory tutorials that help you understand the subject, and then you can take a call if you want to make this your area of work.