Irish-headquartered Equal1, one of the world’s leading silicon quantum computing companies, honors the groundbreaking work of Belfast-born physicist John Stewart Bell.
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The Quantum Solutions for the Environment Challenge is open to all third-level students on the island of Ireland enrolled in any third-level STEM course.
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Winning teams will receive cash prizes, with a total of €10,000, as well as mentorship opportunities with leaders in quantum and environmental science, and a chance to present their solutions.
- “We hope that this competition might inspire the next generation of scientists to drive the quantum industry forward,” Elena Blokhina, Chief Scientific Officer, Equal1.
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– Equal1, one of the world’s leading silicon quantum computing companies, has today announced the launch of its inaugural student competition, The Quantum Solutions for the Environment Challenge, in honor of the 60th anniversary of John Stewart Bell’s groundbreaking work on Bell’s Inequality.
The competition invites students across the entire island of Ireland to explore the transformative potential of quantum technologies to address environmental challenges.
About the competition:
As a tribute to Bell, a Belfast-born physicist whose work fundamentally reshaped our understanding of quantum mechanics, this competition aims to inspire the next generation of Irish scientists, engineers and software developers to build on his legacy.
Third-level students from any science, engineering or software course are invited to investigate how quantum principles can be applied to benefit the environment.
From optimising renewable energy systems to innovating sustainable materials and conservation solutions, students are encouraged to explore how quantum science can address pressing environmental issues.
Why Bell’s legacy matters today:
Bell’s 1964 paper on quantum entanglement and Bell’s Inequality became a foundation for quantum science, which has since led to the development of quantum computing and quantum technologies with vast potential to shape our future.
As we mark the 60th anniversary of this iconic breakthrough, students will have a unique opportunity to connect Bell’s theoretical work to practical applications, demonstrating how quantum science can address global environmental challenges.
Competition guidelines:
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Select an environmental issue: Choose a specific environmental issue that can benefit from quantum applications. Examples include quantum simulations for climate modeling, using quantum algorithms for optimizing renewable energy systems, or exploring quantum chemistry for sustainable material design.
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Demonstrate quantum potential: Describe how quantum technologies could address the issue, either by reducing environmental impact, enhancing existing processes, or proposing a novel solution. This can be theoretical or simulated, demonstrating an understanding of quantum principles.
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Showcase practical benefits: Explain the potential benefits and impacts on the environment, outlining a roadmap to bring the concept closer to real-world application.
Eligibility:
Open to all third-level students on the island of Ireland enrolled in any third-level STEM course. Teams may consist of up to four members. Further details will be available on November 20, 2024, via Equal1’s website. https://www.equal1.com
Awards:
Winning teams will receive cash prizes, with a total of €10,000 across teams and individuals. This cash award is made possible due to Equal1’s success in the Institute of Physics qBIG prize earlier in 2024.
As well as cash prizes, the winners will receive mentorship opportunities with leaders in quantum and environmental science, and a chance to present their solutions at a symposium dedicated to Bell’s anniversary. Top projects may be featured in both quantum and environmental publications.
Judging Criteria:
Projects will be assessed on:
Innovation: Originality of the idea and application of quantum concepts.
Environmental Impact: Potential to positively impact environmental challenges.
Feasibility: Practicality and clarity in explaining how the solution could be implemented.
Presentation: Clarity, organization, and effectiveness in communicating ideas.
Celebrate John Stewart Bell’s transformative contributions to science and join the Quantum Solutions for the Environment Challenge to continue his legacy by shaping a sustainable future through quantum innovation!
