NCCR SPIN researchers give a Workshop for quantum computing curious at the House of Electronic Arts (HEK) in Basel
NCCR SPIN partnered with the House of Electronic Arts in Basel to conduct a workshop for quantum computing enthusiasts as part of their Tech Brunches series. These four-hour hands-on workshops aim to provide an interested audience with insights into technologies such as chatbots, cybersecurity, quantum computers, and NFTs, demonstrating how these technologies function and how they can be used creatively.
Our collaborative workshop on quantum computing came at the very end of Libby Heaney’s exhibition called “Quantum Soup”, which featured videos and installations embodying the artist’s vision of the quantum world. It took place at the HEK on Sunday, 26th May 2024 and was given by Pierre Fromholz, quantum physics theoretician at the University of Basel, and James Wootton, researcher at IBM Research Zürich working on quantum error correction. In the first part of the workshop, Pierre Fromholz gave a theoretical overview of the main principles of quantum physics, necessary to understand quantum computers’ functioning. His engaging talk was complemented by several specially crafted electronic board games designed to make complex principles more understandable. In the second part of the workshop, James Wootton gave an introduction to IBM’s online quantum computer platform, and demonstrated the principle of quantum blur, also used by Libby Heaney in some of her artworks.
The museum sold out the tickets to the workshop, highlighting the interest of broader audiences in the topic of quantum computing. The public included people of all ages (30-60), gender, and of diverse interests, whether they needed an introduction to quantum computing for career purposes, or simply because they were curious about it. Overall, everyone showed great interest, asking many questions throughout and enthusiastically participating in the proposed quantum games.
The NCCR SPIN would like to thank the HEK, and especially Isabella Maund, for the great collaboration and seamless coordination. We warmly thank Pierre Fromholz and James Wootton who dedicated their time to crafting a great introduction to quantum computing!
