FTQC_researchers

First of all, it is very difficult to predict what a machine can do that we have not yet built. The revolution from quantum computing will surly not be as overwhelming as the revolution we have experienced with classical computers, simply because our societies are already accustomed to the principle of computing.

As of now, it seems likely that a quantum computer will be most useful as a research tool. You can compare it to the impact of a scanning tunneling microscope, which very few individuals have in their homes but has been invaluable to biology and chemistry research, which in turn has led to tremendous progress in medicine and materials.

That being said, we do expect quantum information technologies to revolutionize the field of cryptography, the manipulation of complex molecules and materials science in general. One particular example is the process of carbon capture, which is an intractable problem in physical chemistry, but might be tractable with the help of quantum computing. This could be critical in curbing the effect of global warming.

Finally, today's most powerful supercomputers have roughly the same number of transistors as the human brain has neurons. However, they consume a quadrillion (1'000'000'000'000'000) times more energy then the human brain. The technology involved in developing quantum technologies could help us bridge this energy gap, and make computing ultra cheap in terms of energy.

Michael

A very nice analogy I once read in a paper, is that quantum computers are going to be a similar revolution to classical computers, as laser light was to lightbulbs. It didn't replace them, but it opened the possibility to a huge number of applications that hadn't even been imagined before.

Mercedes

Exact replication at the molecular level is a solid "no". But that won't be required for making Picard's tea.

James

A lot of research has shown that your peer group (people around you, e.g. in your classroom) is one of the biggest factors in how well you learn. Just google "peer group effect". The optimal for any student is to be surrounded by peers who are slightly more knowledgeable, and who happy to have intelligent debate. In short, having smart friends is more important than having smart teachers.

Also, the best scientists are those who do it for the pure joy of it!

On the basis of this I'd suggest the following approach: Find smart friends also interested in science and nerd out together. Find fun in talking about science and the rest will fall into place.

That and maths. Learn maths. Doesn't matter what science you do, maths will help.

Earl

I think we are hesitating to answer this because we don't want to break out into a fight. But the correct¹ answer is spin qubits.

James

¹ Not neccesarily correct.