Perimeter Institute: Waterloo’s Quantum Advantage Started Here

At that time, Waterloo’s own Mike Lazaridis, cofounder of BlackBerry, made a bold bet: he invested $100M to launch a world-class institute focused entirely on theoretical physics.

Why?

Because he understood that just as smartphones were built on breakthroughs in physics from over a century ago, the next generation of transformative technologies would come from advances in the same foundational science.

That bet became Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics – a globally renowned research hub, the first of many new initiatives, that laid the groundwork for what we now know as Quantum Valley – or Waterloo.

In a recent interview with Emily Petroff, Perimeter’s Director of External Relations, we discussed the institute’s role in advancing quantum research, nurturing quantum talent and driving the commercialization of quantum tech.

A global research powerhouse

Waterloo’s quantum ecosystem stands apart, thanks to its strong foundation in theoretical physics – a foundation anchored by Perimeter.

“Unlike a typical university department that might have just a handful of theoretical physicists, Perimeter functions like a large physics department entirely dedicated to theory,” shares Petroff.

This is how Waterloo region’s quantum ecosystem took shape: from the ground up, with deep theoretical physics at its core.

Today, the ecosystem includes two of the best quantum research institutes – Perimeter and the Institute of Quantum Computing (IQC) – and 300+ researchers working on quantum breakthroughs.

Perimeter is home to some of the world’s leading physicists, many of whom work closely with IQC researchers to accelerate innovation in quantum computing, quantum sensing and quantum communications.

Five of Perimeter’s nine core disciplines are directly related to quantum physics and technology, including quantum foundations, quantum string theory, quantum gravity, quantum information and quantum matter.

“Many of our researchers focus on foundational quantum questions like how quantum mechanics works, how materials behave and what new types of matter might exist. Their theories challenge our understanding and are tested in research labs at universities, both in Waterloo and across the world,” Petroff adds.

A talent engine for today and tomorrow

More than just a hub for groundbreaking research, Perimeter is a magnet for the world’s brightest minds.

Through programs like Perimeter Scholars International, run in collaboration with the University of Waterloo, Perimeter brings in 25 top students from across the globe each year to nurture the next generation of physicists and quantum innovators.

“Perimeter gives the right environment, tools, mentorship and hands-on experience to tackle some of the most challenging questions in physics and quantum,” says Petroff.

This talent pipeline gives Waterloo a competitive edge at a time when quantum talent is in short supply.

But Perimeter’s influence doesn’t stop at building today’s top talent – educational outreach is a key part of its mandate. Perimeter runs educational initiatives across the region to spark curiosity in science among middle and high school students.

Bridging theory and real-world application

Perimeter’s impact goes beyond theory and talent development.

Take PIQuIL – Perimeter Institute Quantum Intelligence Lab – a dedicated hub where quantum and AI meet, for example. The lab bridges theory and application – bringing together researchers, companies and government to advance AI and quantum technologies.

“Through partnerships with companies like 1QBit, a Vancouver-based quantum computing startup and Pasqal, another quantum computing company, as well as close connections with QuEra, the lab helps businesses tackle complex problems and creatively think of novel solutions,” shares Petroff.

PIQuIL is also the origin of Open Quantum Design, a nonprofit building the world’s first open-source, full-stack quantum computer – right here in Waterloo.

Waterloo: the home of quantum innovation

Waterloo Region’s first-mover advantage is the result of a bet made 25 years ago that paid off. What began as a bold vision has grown into a thriving quantum ecosystem, with Perimeter at the heart of it.

In choosing Perimeter as the stage for announcing Canada’s National Quantum Strategy in January 2023, the Government of Canada made a powerful statement about Perimeter’s role in Canada’s quantum future.

Today, Waterloo is one of the only places in the world with an end-to-end quantum ecosystem.

“What sets Waterloo apart from many other places is a complete quantum pipeline – from deep theoretical research all the way to real-world commercial technology. This breadth of our ecosystem is a real asset,” shares Petroff.

For forward-looking businesses, the message is clear: if you want to stay ahead of the quantum curve, Waterloo is the place to be.