Quebec Prime Minister announces Sherbrooke as an innovation zone

The Institut quantique of Université de Sherbrooke (CNW Group/Université de Sherbrooke)

SHERBROOKE &mdsah; On Feb. 3, Quebec Prime Minister Mr. François Legault of the Sherbrooke Innovation Zone announced that the Institut quantique (IQ) of Université de Sherbrooke (UdeS) has the capabilities to be a dynamic quantum ecosystem.

For IQ’s Scientific Director, Prof. Alexandre Blais, this designation represents a significant development tool: “For our research institute, the creation of an Innovation Zone in quantum sciences and technological applications, and the ecosystem that it will help strengthen, is an exceptional showcase for recruiting the best students here and abroad. Bringing all the partners together around this scientific theme sends a strong message to the quantum community.”

The Innovation Zone will also enable Institut quantique to continue training a highly qualified workforce in Sherbrooke, and to retain this workforce by offering conditions that are favorable to long-term career development.

For Prof. Michel Pioro-Ladrière, Assistant Director of IQ and Scientific Director of the Innovation Zone, this designation by the Quebec government confirms the relevance of their development strategy. “After five years of existence, we have already contributed to putting in place all the elements of a dynamic quantum ecosystem: a critical mass of world-renowned researchers, cutting-edge research infrastructure, strategic partnerships and start-up companies that are establishing themselves in Sherbrooke. An even stronger ecosystem will provide additional diversified employment opportunities, increasing the chances of retaining the talent we train at Institut quantique and in the area as well as creating the optimal conditions to develop our breakthroughs here.”