'Quantum Computing: Promises, Applications and Realities' Science Talk
21 October 2026 · 19:00
Centre Cívic Guinardó, el Guinardó, Horta-Guinardó
Quantum computing has become one of the most high-profile emerging technologies of recent years. It is often described as a future revolution capable of transforming society, as artificial intelligence has done. But what really lies behind these promises? What can quantum computers do today, and what limitations do they still have? This talk will introduce the basic principles of quantum computing in an accessible way and explain how today's quantum computers actually work, including their capabilities and limitations. We will also present our research into simulating many-body quantum systems using hybrid quantum-classical variational methods, one of the areas where this technology could have a particularly significant impact. The aim is to offer a rigorous, hype-free view of what quantum computing can do today and which challenges still need to be solved. Led by Arnau Rios, professor at the Departament de Física Quàntica i Astrofísica and researcher at the Institut de Ciències del Cosmos, Universitat de Barcelona.
Part of the programme: 'Aula 141' Series. Cicle 'Aula 141: 4 activities in Barcelona, from September 30 to October 21. All free.
Source: Ajuntament de Barcelona · checked on 8 September 2026