Why Quantum Computing is the Ultimate Deep Tech Challenge

Deep Tech @ Duke is working to leverage quantum computing and proactively consider governance challenges. Deep tech refers to technologies rooted in scientific breakthroughs with the power to transform industries and shape national priorities. At Duke University, we deliver expertise across AI, quantum computing, semiconductors, renewable energy technologies, and cybersecurity to drive cross-sector research and examine how these innovations fuel reindustrialization, shift supply chains, and redefine global strategy.

Introduction

Views of quantum computing range from a looming threat to pure speculation, but Deep Tech @ Duke anticipates it will be a revolutionary breakthrough. The mystique surrounding quantum technologies is understandable given that their mechanics challenge our everyday understanding of how the world works. Quantum computing is fascinating from a strategic perspective because it is a convergence of the most challenging scientific problems, with high economic and geopolitical stakes. Countries are tossing their hats in the ring and betting on quantum research not just because the science is cool and sexy, but because quantum capabilities would fundamentally alter the balance of power in everything from cybersecurity to drug discovery. This unique combination of scientific complexity, transformative potential, and winner-take-all competition makes quantum the ultimate example of deep tech.

What is Quantum Computing?

Unlike most emerging technologies that build incrementally on existing foundations, quantum computing requires a fundamentally new approach. Classical computers, such as laptops and smartphones, process information using binary bits; ones and zeros. Quantum computers use quantum bits or qubits that can exist in multiple states simultaneously. To understand this difference, imagine a light switch that can be both ON and OFF at the same time—not flickering between them or stuck in some middle position, but genuinely both ON and OFF at once. In contrast, the bits in a classical computer function like normal switches: they can only be ON or OFF, never both. This quantum phenomenon is called superposition and, while it sounds impossible, follows the well-established laws of quantum mechanics. For example, when you flip a coin, it spins in the air existing in neither a definitive heads nor tails state until it lands and you observe the result. Similarly, a qubit exists in a superposition of both 0 and 1 simultaneously until it is measured—at which point it "lands" on one definitive state. This fundamental difference means that while classical computers must process information sequentially, checking one possibility at a time, quantum computers can explore multiple possibilities simultaneously, potentially offering exponential advantages for certain types of computational problems.

The engineering challenges for creating quantum computers are staggering due to the uniqueness of quantum mechanics. Namely, quantum computers are extremely sensitive to noise and errors caused by external stimuli. To manipulate the mechanics of qubits to achieve computing goals, external stimuli must be mitigated to develop reliable error correction techniques. For example, our world-class researchers at the Duke Quantum Center (DQC) build quantum computers using two robust hardware platforms: ion traps and neutral atoms. Both of these platforms rely on precise laser control to manipulate qubits and avoid the defects that commonly plague fabricated quantum circuit technologies. Ultimately, depending on the approach used to exploit quantum mechanics for computing purposes, building a quantum computer requires advances in materials science, cryogenics, laser physics, and control systems. This is the kind of fundamental research that takes years to achieve and requires interdisciplinary teams to collaborate on such advancements—this collaborative effort is at the heart of Deep Tech @ Duke’s initiative.

Why Quantum Computing Matters

Due to the promise of quantum computing’s capabilities, those who achieve reliable quantum advantage will not just have a new tool, but a fundamentally different computing capability that could jeopardize existing industries while creating new ones. For example, consider cryptography where much of our digital securities, such as encryption, rely on the fact that classical computers cannot efficiently factor large numbers. However, a powerful quantum computer could break current encryption methods in a shorter period of time by factoring large numbers faster. This would mean that for all technologies that use current encryption methods, from credit card transactions to government communications, our digital privacy system would need to be rebuilt in a quantum-safe manner, technically known as post-quantum cryptography (PQC). Considerable advantages will come to those who harness this technology first and similar winner-take-all dynamics apply across various sectors. Quantum simulation could accelerate drug discovery, quantum optimization could revolutionize supply chains, and quantum sensors could enhance navigation systems. Thus, the transformative potential of quantum computing has sparked a global arms race as nations recognize that quantum leadership will determine not just technological superiority, but economic dominance and national security inthe decades ahead.

Quantum Interest and Funding

The strategic positioning of nations for technological leadership via quantum funding is reshaping geopolitics in real time. For example, the U.S. continues to fund quantum research via the National Quantum Initiative, and China heavily bolsters government-backed funding for emerging technologies, including quantum computing. Similarly, the EU has invested 1 billion euros in quantum research and countries from Canada to Japan are launching national quantum initiatives. However, financial contributions are not the only means nations are pushing to achieve quantum leadership. Export controls on quantum technologies are tightening across many nations and the supply chain for quantum components remains highly specialized. The constraints of a small market and specialized supply chain directly impact the advancement of quantum technologies and pressure nations to develop their own solutions such as building proprietary manufacturing facilities and increasing their quantum workforce.

The United States is currently the largest quantum technology market, but there is growing international competition. Deep Tech @ Duke is working to analyze emerging trends in quantum funding and innovation to understand how North Carolina can foster the development ofbreakthrough technologies. The Duke Quantum Center is actively working to achieve quantum information processing and quantum science laboratories. The Deep Tech @ Duke initiative looks to collaborate with this Center to include experts in conversations about avenues for quantum growth both in the U.S. and specifically in North Carolina.

Who Should Care?

Duke University believes quantum is the perfect deep tech challenge due to its cross-sector implications and need for interdisciplinary expert teams. Within the sciences, quantum technologies draw from physics, chemistry, and material science for foundational knowledge and device development. The applied technology sector translates quantum principles into practical computing and security systems. Economically, quantum technologies influence industrial policy and market competition as nations and corporations position themselves strategically. The geopolitical implications affect national security and international relations, while policy addresses regulatory frameworks and investment strategies for responsible quantum development. Given these wide-ranging implications, quantum technologies should matter to scientists, technologists, policymakers, business leaders, and national security experts alike.

Deep Tech @ Duke’s Goals

To capitalize on the potential of quantum technology, Deep Tech @ Duke is developing research teams to study emerging technical, policy, and ethical challenges. This will spur collaborations across Duke’s campus and the greater Research Triangle. The projects will analyze opportunities to leverage quantum when it intersects with other fields of interest:

• AI: using quantum to build better algorithms that can increase processing power and more efficiently handle large data loads
• Cybersecurity: leveraging quantum to create more robust data security
• Semiconductors: applying quantum to create more sophisticated processors and enhance understanding of electron behavior
• Climate Finance: using quantum to improve climate risk management and properly allocate and manage resources

By building bridges across topics and industries, decision makers can consider governance structures that drive U.S. innovation and set international safety standards while mitigating risks.This fall the Initiative will host a quantum event convening federal and state decision-makers, Duke leadership, and key stakeholders to discuss strategies for strengthening the Research Triangle’s position in the national quantum ecosystem. This event reflects the university’s commitment to be a global leader in cutting-edge technologies.

To learn more about Deep Tech’s mission, upcoming events, and work, visit our home page!

Corresponding authors: Lily Bermudez; Email: lily.bermudez@duke.edu 

Lauren Maynor; Email: lauren.maynor@duke.edu 

Photo Source: https://images.app.goo.gl/r4PSWZmbzFtYvxp59