This event was organized in collaboration with the Embassies of Switzerland and Finland in the United States, the American Physical Society (APS), and SPIE. Taking place in the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center in Washington, D.C. on February 26, 2024, this science diplomacy quantum event featured keynote remarks by the Ambassadors of Switzerland and Finland to the U.S., followed by panel discussions and flash talks by distinguished speakers from Switzerland, Finland, and the United States.
We were very honored to welcome two esteemed Swiss experts as speakers at this event: Dr. Tim Smith, CERN, Head of Collaboration and Information Services & future lead of the Open Quantum Institute, shared insights on open education, training, and outreach initiatives, emphasizing the importance of training the multipliers such as teachers, as well as the significance of open data and the role of the Open Quantum Institute. Additionally, Dr. Marilena Longobardi, University of Basel, Scientific Coordinator of NCCR SPIN, highlighted the Swiss Quantum landscape and the different national initiatives which are fostering collaboration and innovation in this ever-growing field.
The following topics were discussed during the event:
• The crucial need for skilled workers in the era of technological revolution, with a spotlight on the Swiss vocational education system as a prime example.
• Exploring the cross-disciplinary and nascent nature of quantum technology and the significance of forging partnerships with various industries to drive innovation and advancement.
• Comparative perspectives on quantum talent development from different countries and different sectors of the quantum economy.
The event saw great attendance and the presence of stakeholders from various domains, contributing to insightful discussions and fostering collaboration in the field of quantum science and diplomacy. The enlightening panel discussion and flash talks allowed for a highly valuable exchange of ideas between experts and participants. It was a remarkable event showcasing the global efforts and advancements in quantum technologies and further highlighting the role of Switzerland in the greatest technological revolution.
Later that evening, selected guests from industry, academia, government and international organizations attended a dinner at the Residence of the Swiss Ambassador on the occasion of the newly created Open Quantum Institute. The Open Quantum Institute is an initiative of GESDA Geneva Science & Diplomacy Anticipator which is hosted at CERN. The guest of honor, Dr. Tim Smith, newly appointed lead coordinator for the Open Quantum Institute, presented the core mission of the institute and the importance of international collaboration in order to use the tremendous potential of Quantum Computing to solve society’s most pressing challenges and advance the sustainable development goals.
December 1 -5, 2025 / State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation Dr. Martina Hirayama led a science mission to San Francisco, Washington, D.C., and Boston...
