UPCité community
The quantum community at Université Paris Cité brings together internationally recognized research teams, combining fundamental sciences (computer science and physics), innovative technologies, and historical and philosophical perspectives to create a unique and open ecosystem.
© Université Paris Cité
Internationally recognized laboratories
The Fundamental Computer Science Research Institute (IRIF), Materials and Quantum Phenomena (MPQ) and the Virgo/Einstein group of the laboratory AstroParticule et Cosmologie (APC) research units lie at the heart of Université Paris Cité’s expertise in quantum information. They span computer science, fundamental physics, and the development of innovative quantum technologies, and enjoy worldwide recognition for their research.
Université Paris Cité also has staff based in off-site laboratories, in particular at the Physics Laboratory of the École Normale Supérieure, as well as at the Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology.
A unique transdisciplinary approach
Research at Université Paris Cité brings together multiple disciplines in an original and integrated way:
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Computer science: development of quantum algorithms and analysis of their limitations
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Theoretical physics: study of physical systems used as carriers of quantum information
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Experimental physics: implementation and manipulation of qubits, and their use in applications
This cross-disciplinary approach connects theory and experimentation while fostering scientific innovation.
A historical and philosophical perspective
The Sciences, Philosophy and History (SPHERE) research unit brings a complementary dimension by examining the historical and philosophical evolution of practices of measurement and knowledge. Its work deepens the understanding of conceptual, epistemic, material, and institutional issues, offering a comprehensive view of the quantum sciences—particularly quantum optics—beyond purely technical aspects.
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Biphoton state generation and engineering with bright hybrid III–V/silicon photonic devices
The QITE team at the MPQ Laboratory, in collaboration with STMicroelectronics, C2N, and INPHYNI, published a paper in Optica Quantum on the generation and engineering of two-photon states using III-V/SOI hybrid devices.
Quantum Computing and Quantum Physics Explained Differently
Quantum computing and quantum physics are now major scientific disciplines, but they remain complex to understand. To make them more accessible to non-expert audiences, Sophie Laplante, Associate Professor in algorithms and quantum and classical computational complexity at IRIF, the Fundamental Computer Science Research Institute (Université Paris Cité/CNRS), and appointed Senior Member of the Institut Universitaire de France (IUF) in 2025 under the Science Communication Chair, designs educational tools.
Quantum Signals and TUPHO: Two Examples of Quantum Innovation at Université Paris Cité
Quantum computing and quantum physics are now attracting growing interest from industry. Iordanis Kerenidis, Research Director in quantum computing at IRIF, the Fundamental Computer Science Research Institute (Université Paris Cité/CNRS), is developing solutions to stabilize financial markets. Ivan Favero, Research Director in quantum physics at the MPQ laboratory, Materials and Quantum Phenomena (Université Paris Cité/CNRS), is leading the TUPHO project, winner of an ERC Proof of Concept grant, which aims to improve the precision of photonic resonators.
Université Paris Cité: Home to Two Major Quantum Communities
2025 is the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. In this context, Université Paris Cité looks back at major quantum-related initiatives carried out within the institution. The Algorithms and Complexity team at IRIF, the Fundamental Computer Science Research Institute (Université Paris Cité/CNRS) and the MPQ laboratory, Materials and Quantum Phenomena (Université Paris Cité/CNRS) now form two communities that notably conduct activities in quantum computing and quantum physics. Miklos Santha, Emeritus Research Director in quantum computing and founder of the Algorithms and Complexity team at IRIF, and Sara Ducci, Professor at Université Paris Cité at the MPQ laboratory, reflect on the history of these two communities.