Kolkata, 11th December 2025: TCG CREST inaugurated the International Conference on Quantum Information Science and Technology (ICQIST 2025), bringing some of the world’s leading quantum researchers to Kolkata. Organised by its Centre for Quantum Engineering, Research and Education (CQuERE) from 9–13 December, the conference is one of the key global events marking the United Nations’ ‘International Year of Quantum’.
The conference brings together eminent scientists including Mark Saffman (University of Wisconsin), Sougato Bose (University College London), Adolfo del Campo (University of Luxembourg) and Yutaka Shikano (University of Tsukuba), along with leading Indian researchers. They will present and discuss cutting-edge developments in quantum computing, quantum sensing, quantum communication and quantum mechanics.
ICQIST is the final event in a year-long series of talks and scientific meetings hosted by CQuERE in 2025 to celebrate the International Year of Quantum, which has already featured public lectures by Physics Nobel laureates David J. Wineland, Anne L’Huillier and Sir Roger Penrose. The conference features more than 50 speakers from India, Europe, North America, Japan, Singapore and Australia. Sessions will focus on quantum algorithms and architectures, quantum error correction, quantum communication and cryptography, quantum sensing and metrology, as well as foundational questions in quantum theory. Dedicated sessions will also enable students to interact directly with international researchers.
Speaking about the conference, Prof. Bhanu Pratap Das, Director, CQuERE, TCG CREST, said: “ICQIST reflects the momentum that quantum science and technology have gained in India. At CQuERE, we are building an ecosystem that combines foundational research with applications that can shape the future, from computation and communication to precision sensing. Hosting this conference reinforces our commitment to advancing quantum science and technology at the highest level and creating opportunities for young researchers to engage with global leaders.”
“Quantum science demands both depth and imagination, and institutions must create the environment for both. ICQIST shows what becomes possible when researchers, students and global experts come together in a space built around intellectual ambition. At TCG CREST, our aim is to nurture a research culture that supports strong scientific inquiry and the development of technologies with lasting impact,” said Prof. Malabika Sarkar, Mentor, TCG CREST.
CQuERE is one of India’s few dedicated research centres in quantum science and technology. In the five years since its establishment, the centre has expanded across several critical research areas. Its teams are working on building a practical quantum computer and developing advanced quantum sensors, including a sensing project that is part of the National Quantum Mission.
The quantum computing theory group at CQuERE has published several acclaimed papers using state-of-the art quantum algorithms. In quantum information and communication theory, researchers have taken steps that could lead to potential applications in secure communication. The centre also runs a PhD programme that prepares students for research careers in both academia and industry, contributing to India’s growing talent pool in quantum technologies.
