Q-turn: changing paradigms in quantum science

Abstract

Quantum information is a rapidly-growing interdisciplinary field at the intersection of information science, computer science, mathematics, philosophy, and quantum science. This fruitful field of research is at the core of our developments of quantum technologies, while widening the frontiers of our fundamental knowledge, and has achieved remarkable progress in the last few decades. Regardless of its scientific success, quantum information is not exempt from the intrinsic features that come from the fact that scientists are humans and members of society: both the good and the bad of our social practices leak into the scientific activity. In our scientific community, diversity and equal opportunity problems are particularly difficult to observe due to social, economic, or cultural barriers, often remaining invisible. How can our lack of awareness negatively influence the progress of science in the long term? How can our community grow into a better version of itself? This article reflects on how research events—such as conferences—can contribute to a shift in our culture. This reflection draws on what we learn from Q-turn: an initiative triggered by postdoctoral researchers to discuss these questions, and by doing so raise awareness about diversity issues and equal opportunities in quantum science. In addition to the high calibre of science, one of Q-turn’s main missions is to foster an inclusive community and highlight outstanding research that may be under-appreciated in other high-impact venues due to systemic biases. As well as a scientific programme, Q-turn features talks and discussions on issues that affect the quantum information community, ranging from diversity and inclusion, health and mental health, to workers’ rights. In this perspective article, we will consider Q-turn as an example of how a research community can work to tackle systematic biases, review the successes, and identify further points for development.