Quantum computing shoul be embedded into the daily lives of doctors on the NHS frontline, writes Ilyas Khan, founder of Quantinuum , in today’s Notebook
The scale of the NHS’ healthcare challenge is undeniable. The UK is getting older, healthcare needs are becoming more complex and there is an increasing emphasis on supporting longer, but also healthier and more dignified lives. Above all, society expects that we take care of those who suffer illness and accidents.
The government is openly committed to improve the NHS and take advantage of new technologies.
This dedication is paralleled by the aspirations outlined in the UK’s pioneering National Quantum Strategy – a strategy that we, being one of the initial UK-based quantum firms, have backed for ten years now – along with the recently unveiled AI Opportunities Action Plan. However, to genuinely bring about transformation, these governmental concepts must transition from theoretical discussions within policy documents and be implemented directly through the efforts of those working at the forefront of various sectors.
Technology offers a chance to significantly enhance patient outcomes. At Quantinuum, our efforts are focused on transforming pioneering scientific studies into tangible achievements by integrating quantum computing and artificial intelligence with specialized software designed for scientists working in areas such as pharmacology and computational biology.
Physicians, nurses, and midwives at the forefront of the NHS can harness the potential of artificial intelligence and quantum technology via their regular patient engagements, pinpointing ways to enhance therapies and ultimately preserve lives.
Last week, we collaborated with NHS healthcare professionals at an AI and quantum hackathon aimed at aiding the innovative minds within our healthcare system as they develop groundbreaking solutions for patients. The winning project focused on creating a personalized cancer treatment dashboard utilizing machine learning and quantum optimization techniques to craft customized therapies designed to enhance patient recovery rates.
Extensive and bold collaborations are required between corporations and governmental entities to address the magnitude of challenges confronting not just the NHS but also all public sectors, fostering sweeping transformations throughout society.
Supporting piece
We need to make quantum computing more accessible to everyone.
I had the privilege of serving as the first chairperson for the Stephen Hawking Foundation. A concept close to Stephen’s heart was making science available to everyone. As he put it, "Introducing science to the public draws the public into science."
This year marks the UN's International Year of Quantum, celebrating 100 years since the inception of quantum mechanics and the worldwide technological revolution it sparked. As noted by Carlo Rovelli, a prominent interpreter of quantum theory, this field still pushes us to question some of our core beliefs regarding reality itself. According to quantum theory, even minute particles do not possess inherent properties; rather, they derive their characteristics from interactions with other entities.
Fortunately, through open and collaborative research, we harnessed this deep insight to build quantum computers designed to solve previously impossible problems such as helping AI to discover new medicines.
Quantum computing has the potential to improve the prospects of humankind, but only if it remains accessible to all, rather than concentrated in the hands of a few. The stakes are high, but through open access, global collaboration and equitable policies and combining quantum computing with AI, we can and must make quantum computing a force for shared prosperity.
How can quantum help finance?
Over more than ten years since I established a quantum computing firm, I've been deeply engaged in numerous scientific or technological "firsts." However, few of these breakthroughs were capable of swiftly addressing intricate practical issues. This is precisely why our recent announcement with JP Morgan Chase The previous month was filled with excitement.
With our leading-edge H2 quantum computer, we produced verifiable quantum-generated random numbers using an approach that provides immediate benefits for sectors such as cryptography and finance—demonstrating how quantum technology can reshape current and upcoming commercial practices.
A recommendation
I suggest reading "Helgoland" by Carlo Rovelli for those curious about diving into the world of quantum computing—it offers an easily digestible examination of the theories underpinning these groundbreaking devices.
Ilyas Khan is the founder and Chief Product Officer at Quantinuum.