Photonic Inc. Founder Dr. Stephanie Simmons to Speak at UNESCO’s International Year of Quantum Science and Technology Opening Ceremony
Paris, France – February 4-5, 2025 – Photonic Inc., a global leader in distributed quantum computing using silicon-based technologies, has announced that its Founder and Chief Quantum Officer, Dr. Stephanie Simmons, will be a featured speaker at the Opening Ceremony of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ 2025). Hosted by UNESCO at its headquarters in Paris, this landmark event will bring together world-renowned quantum experts to celebrate the 100th anniversary of quantum mechanics and explore the transformative potential of quantum technologies.
Dr. Simmons, a trailblazer in the quantum field, will join a distinguished panel of experts to discuss groundbreaking research and innovations shaping the future of quantum science. Her participation underscores Photonic Inc.’s commitment to advancing scalable quantum computing and its applications in addressing global challenges.
A Milestone for Quantum Science and Technology
The United Nations has designated 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, recognizing the profound impact quantum advancements will have on future technologies and their potential to address pressing societal issues. This global initiative aims to raise awareness, foster international collaboration, and accelerate progress toward the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
“Being part of this inaugural event marking the start of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology is a tremendous honor,” said Dr. Simmons. “This milestone allows us to reflect on the foundational discoveries in quantum science while also highlighting the immense possibilities of their application in quantum technologies. At Photonic, we are proud to be accelerating the timeline to commercially viable quantum solutions.”
Highlights of the IYQ 2025 Opening Ceremony
The two-day event will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, art exhibitions, and networking opportunities, providing a platform for attendees to engage in meaningful conversations about the capabilities, applications, and ethical considerations of quantum science.
Dr. Simmons will participate in a high-profile panel discussion on February 4, 2025, alongside luminaries such as Dr. Alain Aspect, Nobel Laureate in Physics; Dr. Jian-Wei Pan, a leading quantum researcher from the University of Science and Technology of China; and Dr. Dave Smith, National Technology Adviser representing the UK’s Minister of State for Science, Research, and Innovation. Their 50-minute discussion will delve into the latest advancements in quantum research and their potential to revolutionize industries such as materials science, drug discovery, climate change mitigation, and cybersecurity.
Photonic Inc.: Pioneering Quantum Innovation
Photonic Inc. has emerged as a leader in quantum computing, thanks to its groundbreaking Entanglement First™ architecture. This innovative approach leverages optically linked silicon spin qubits with high connectivity, enabling large-scale quantum computing and quantum networks. The technology facilitates efficient error correction, seamless integration into existing data center and telecom infrastructures, and the distribution of entanglement for powerful computation.
Headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, with operations in the United States and the United Kingdom, Photonic Inc. boasts a team of over 150 experts dedicated to driving quantum advancements. The company is supported by leading investors and multinational partners, including Microsoft, a key collaborator in advancing quantum networking and ecosystem development.
Dr. Stephanie Simmons: A Visionary Leader in Quantum Science
Dr. Simmons is widely recognized as a leading voice in the quantum field. In addition to her role at Photonic Inc., she serves as co-chair of Canada’s National Quantum Strategy advisory board and represents Canada on quantum initiatives at NATO. She is also a Fellow at the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research in Quantum Information Science and an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at Simon Fraser University (SFU).
Her participation in the IYQ 2025 Opening Ceremony highlights her commitment to advancing quantum science and its applications. “Quantum technologies have the potential to transform industries and address some of the world’s most pressing challenges,” said Dr. Simmons. “Events like IYQ 2025 are critical for fostering collaboration and accelerating progress in this rapidly evolving field.”
Microsoft’s Role in Advancing Quantum Technologies
Microsoft, a key partner of Photonic Inc., is the lead sponsor of IYQ 2025. Dr. Krysta Svore, Principal Research Manager of Microsoft Quantum, will also be a featured speaker at the event. Microsoft’s involvement underscores the importance of quantum technologies in shaping the future of computing and its applications across industries.
Join the Quantum Revolution
The IYQ 2025 Opening Ceremony is a must-attend event for anyone interested in the future of quantum science and technology. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from leading experts, explore cutting-edge innovations, and contribute to discussions about the ethical and societal implications of quantum advancements.
To learn more about IYQ 2025 and the Opening Ceremony, visit https://quantum2025.org. For more information on Photonic Inc.’s pioneering work in quantum computing and networking, visit www.photonic.com.
Watch Dr. Stephanie Simmons share her insights on the future of quantum science in 2025, the year designated by the United Nations as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, here.
