Ericsson Canada is establishing a new Quantum research hub in Montreal as part of its cutting-edge global quantum research agenda.
The hub will host research projects that aim to explore quantum-based algorithms for accelerating processing in telecom networks and distributed quantum computing.
The quantum sector will be key to fuelling Canada’s economy, technology, and growth, especially as technologies come to fruition and more sectors of the economy look to harness quantum capabilities.
According to a study commissioned by the NRC in 2020, it is estimated that, by 2045, the Canadian quantum industry, will be a $139 billion industry and account for 209,200 jobs.
Ericsson Canada is well positioned to boost the Canadian quantum ecosystem with its research and development capabilities and existing relationships with Canadian post-secondary institutions like the Universities of Ottawa and Sherbrooke.
Ericsson will pair its researchers with post-doctoral fellows at the universities to carry out fellowships at Ericsson, supporting the quantum research projects, providing the academic challenges, telecom and networking competence and facilities to conduct this advanced research.
“Canada is a pioneer and global leader in quantum research, as evidenced most recently by the launch of the National Quantum Strategy. Similarly, our researchers and experts at Ericsson have long been studying how to best innovate quantum technologies into communications networks,” said Jeanette Irekvist, President, Ericsson Canada.
“It’s our hope that this first-of-its-kind program and partnership with the University of Ottawa and the University of Sherbrooke will help translate quantum research into commercial innovations that generate economic benefits and support the adoption of made-in-Canada solutions by businesses. This will foster our mutual strength in quantum research, innovation and commercialization, and the growth and success of the Canadian ecosystem.”
Mitacs will deliver support in the attraction, training, retention, and deployment of highly qualified personnel in quantum science and technology through innovation internship experiences and professional skills development. Interns will work with researchers at Ericsson Canada and the universities.
Ericsson Canada has 3,100 employees in state-of-the-art 5G R&D centres and offices in Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto, is amongst the top 13 R&D spenders in Canada, investing an average of $345 million a year for a total of nearly $7 billion and holds a strong set of 2,000+ Canadian patents out of a global repertoire of 60,000.