Fostering curiosity: High school students dive into quantum computing with JuniorUni
Two lecture sessions took twelve high school students through a learning journey into the world of quantum computing in the physics department at the University of Cologne earlier this month. The students took part in an introduction to quantum information and the massive technical opportunities it brings to the computational field.
In the first lecture, Rochus Klesse introduced the mathematical basis of quantum information, paving the way to discuss some basic algorithms and the revolution in cryptography quantum computing brings. The session ignited a discussion about the nature of quantum information and the novelty it brings to the notion of reality. Fabian Hoepfner a participant reported “As an aspiring theoretical physicist, it was really enjoyable to discuss whether quantum computers made sense”.
As an aspiring theoretical physicist, it was really enjoyable to discuss whether quantum computers made sense.
Hoepfner appreciated the scope of the event, saying, “I am happy that I joined because I got exposed to experimental physics, too”. On the second session, Jakob Schluck presented the challenges experimentalist have to work out trying to realize a functional quantum computer. The participants were also able to tour the labs of the second physics institute.
JuniorUni serves as a platform that allows young individuals to pursue their interests at a subject-specific level. Through the voluntary contributions of experts from various fields, including ML4Q professionals, JuniorUni offers these experiences to students free of charge.