Perimeter Institute Celebrates 25 Years of Quantum Discovery

The Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics in Waterloo, Canada, marked its 25th anniversary on September 25, 2023. Founded by entrepreneur Mike Lazaridis with a donation of over $100 million, the institute has significantly advanced the fields of theoretical physics and quantum science since its inception in 2000. This milestone coincides with the United Nations’ International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, celebrating a century since the establishment of quantum mechanics.

The origins of the Perimeter Institute can be traced back to a pivotal lecture delivered by Lynn Watt, one of Lazaridis’s professors at the University of Waterloo. During this lecture, Watt discussed groundbreaking experiments by Alain Aspect that confirmed the existence of entangled particles, a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics. Lazaridis recalls, “The entire class was stunned. Some of us fell out of our seats, quite literally.” This moment resonated deeply with him and laid the groundwork for his vision of a dedicated research institute.

Lazaridis emphasized the importance of unifying Einstein’s theory of relativity and quantum mechanics, stating that such a reconciliation could lead to revolutionary technologies and new industries. He noted, “History has shown that whenever different forces—like heat and energy, electricity and magnetism—are unified, it creates enormous opportunity for industry and prosperity.”

The Perimeter Institute has since evolved into a leading research center, contributing to advancements in theoretical physics, cosmology, and quantum computing. With a curriculum developed for high school students in over 142 countries, the institute plays a crucial role in shaping the future of science education globally. Researchers at Perimeter have also been instrumental in creating radio telescopes that detect rapid bursts of radio waves from the universe.

One of Lazaridis’s proudest moments came when he witnessed the first images of a black hole published in newspapers worldwide in April 2019. These groundbreaking photographs, captured by the Event Horizon Telescope Collaboration, were made possible through technology developed at the Perimeter Institute. “We were part of that,” he remarked, reflecting on Waterloo’s contribution to a momentous scientific achievement.

The anniversary event attracted approximately 200 attendees, including influential researchers, politicians, and two Nobel Prize winners. Among them was Art McDonald, a particle physicist recognized for his work on neutrinos, who highlighted ongoing research at SNOLAB in Sudbury, Ontario. McDonald announced an upcoming $60 million experiment aimed at detecting dark matter particles, which are believed to constitute a significant portion of the universe’s mass.

Katie Mack, who holds the Hawking Chair in Cosmology at Perimeter, stressed the importance of curiosity-driven research in fostering technological advancements. Mack, an advocate for making complex scientific concepts accessible, noted that the challenge lies in communicating difficult ideas in a way that resonates with the public. “I am going to help you find the connection where you can get there,” she said, aiming to diminish the barriers that often hinder understanding.

Another notable attendee was Donna Strickland, co-recipient of the 2018 Nobel Prize for her pioneering work on laser technology. Strickland commented on the unpredictable nature of foundational research, suggesting that breakthroughs often stem from areas initially deemed obsolete. “There is no telling where foundational research will lead,” she remarked, highlighting the ongoing advancements in quantum technologies.

Looking ahead, the Perimeter Institute is at the forefront of two transformative revolutions: one in quantum technology and the other in artificial intelligence. Carena Marcela, the institute’s executive director, outlined ambitious research goals, such as understanding the nature of dark energy and dark matter, and exploring the conditions following the Big Bang.

As the world stands on the brink of these scientific revolutions, the Perimeter Institute continues to be a beacon of innovation, fostering inquiry that is shaping the future of technology and science. By bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application, the institute not only contributes to academic knowledge but also enhances the quality of life for people around the globe.