Building Trust in the Quantum Technology Revolution

Wide-area AFM scan over a live circuit at 200 mK (left), and a higher resolution AFM image shows the interdigitated capacitors within the resonator (right). Image credit: Hegedüs, M. et al 2025, shared under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-Share Alike 4.0 International Licence.

Quantum technologies are often described as revolutionary, capable of transforming computing, communications and sensing. But turning that promise into something reliable, scalable and usable in the real world is a far more complex challenge than headlines suggest.

That challenge was at the heart of a recent talk by Prof. Olga Kazakova from the National Physical Laboratory, UK, a leading figure in quantum materials, given as part of the QAMSS lecture series at the Cambridge Graphene Centre. She outlined the critical but often overlooked work required to make quantum technologies trustworthy, from benchmarking quantum computers to validating quantum networks and understanding the materials that underpin them.

In a follow-up interview, she distilled these ideas into a broader perspective: quantum technologies will only succeed if the invisible foundations – standards, materials, and measurement – are robust.

“We focus our expertise… towards solving quantum missions and how materials can support them,” she explained. “How we can help accelerate the development of quantum technologies from our side.”

Why materials matter in quantum technology

At the core of this work is a deceptively simple idea: quantum devices are only as good as the materials they are built from.

The research sits at the intersection of materials science and quantum engineering, focusing on systems such as superconductors, semiconductors and wide band-gap materials like diamond and silicon carbide. These materials are not always “quantum” in the exotic sense, but they are essential to making quantum devices function reliably.

This reflects a broader shift in the field. While early quantum research often emphasised novel phenomena, today’s challenge is engineering stability and scalability. Even tiny defects in a material, down to individual atomic impurities, can disrupt a quantum system.

During the lecture, advanced imaging techniques were highlighted that can detect these defects in superconducting circuits as well as in other materials platforms. These tools allow researchers to map how imperfections affect performance, offering a pathway to more stable quantum devices. The ultimate goal is to move from fragile laboratory experiments to industrial-scale systems.

Standardisation and measurement in quantum systems

One of the central themes of the talk was standardisation, a concept more commonly associated with manufacturing than cutting-edge science.

Yet in quantum technology, standardisation is essential. Without agreed methods to measure performance, compare systems or validate results, progress becomes fragmented.

This work includes developing benchmarks for quantum computers, calibration techniques for single-photon detectors and validation frameworks for quantum communication systems. These efforts are not just technical, they are foundational for building a quantum industry.

From defining metrics for qubit performance to ensuring the accuracy of quantum sensors, such work creates a common language across academia, industry and government. It also enables interoperability, allowing different quantum systems to work together. This is what turns isolated breakthroughs into a functioning ecosystem.

Quantum networks and the future of communication

Beyond computing, the lecture also explored advances in quantum networks, systems that use quantum properties to enable ultra-secure communication and distributed quantum computing.

This includes validating quantum key distribution systems and developing testbeds for distributed entanglement. These networks could eventually connect quantum computers and sensors across large distances.

One particularly striking aspect is the level of precision involved. Quantum networks can synchronise time between nodes with extraordinary accuracy, down to picoseconds. Achieving this requires not only advanced physics but also meticulous measurement and calibration.

Again, the theme returns to trust. For quantum networks to be deployed widely, their components must be tested, verified and standardised.

From research to strategy and infrastructure

In the interview, Kazakova spoke candidly about her evolving role, from leading hands-on research to shaping a broader ecosystem for quantum technologies.

“In the last year or so I’ve been moving slightly away from direct research,” she said, “to really building the UK’s ecosystems in materials for quantum applications.”

This includes addressing supply chain vulnerabilities. Many of the materials used in quantum technologies rely on complex, global supply chains that are not always secure or resilient.

“The supply chains in Quantum are highly vulnerable and rely on geopolitical situations,” she noted. “It depends on long geographical routes… and it’s totally not UK or UK-allied countries based.”

Strengthening these supply chains is not just an economic concern, it is critical for long-term capability in quantum technologies. Her work now involves advising on infrastructure, strategy and investment, ensuring that materials science is fully integrated into national ambitions.

The human side of scientific progress

While much of this work deals with highly technical systems, Kazakova also highlighted the human dimension of science.

A major focus has been supporting researchers, particularly those at mid-career stages who may face stagnation.

“We tried to do more one-to-one activities with talented people… trying to help them with their career progression” she said.

The results have been striking: “About 80% of people with whom we worked… achieved quite a lot within a year.”

This mentoring approach reflects a broader philosophy: scientific progress depends not only on ideas and technology, but also on people and their development.

Balancing risk, reward and responsibility

Another theme that emerged strongly was the balance between risk and responsibility in research.

There is strong support for “high-risk, high-reward” ideas, but with a clear sense of purpose.

“For me, it’s very important to know what the reward is,” she explained. “It’s fine if it’s high risk… but there should be a clear understanding why you’re doing this and how it can help.”

This perspective is shaped by the fact that much scientific research is publicly funded.

“We are paid by taxpayers,” she said. “Ethics… is crucial.”

Equally important is knowing when to stop. Not all ideas succeed and recognising that early can save time and resources.

“It’s not a failure, it’s data and information for future science” she said. “I tried. It was a great idea. It didn’t work out. I will think about something else.”

Building a quantum future you can trust

Looking ahead, the field faces both challenges and opportunities.

Technically, there is a need to improve the reliability and scalability of quantum systems. Organisationally, stronger connections are required between research, industry and policy.

There is also optimism about positive changes in the research landscape and funding structures, with opportunities to help shape future directions.

Ultimately, the goal is clear: to ensure that quantum technologies are not just powerful, but dependable and integrated into real-world systems in ways that are both transformative and trusted.

If there is a single takeaway, it is this: the future of quantum technology depends on trust.

Not just trust in the abstract sense, but in the measurable, verifiable performance of real systems. Trust that a quantum computer will produce reliable results. That a quantum network will securely transmit information. That the materials inside these devices will behave predictably.

Achieving that trust requires a vast amount of work behind the scenes, metrology, standardisation, materials science, infrastructure and collaboration.

It may not be as headline-grabbing as quantum supremacy or entanglement, but it is what will ultimately determine whether quantum technologies remain in the lab or reshape the world. The quantum revolution is not just about discovery; it is about building something that works.

About the interviewee

Olga Kazakova is a Fellow of the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), London, UK, and currently serves as chair of NPL’s Senior Science College. Her research lies at the intersection of materials science and quantum technology, with a particular focus on materials for quantum applications.

Previously, Olga has led pioneering work in advanced imaging techniques for functional nanoscale studies, the development of novel sensors for environmental monitoring, life sciences and food safety, as well as metrological innovations.

She is the author of approximately 200 peer-reviewed publications and has delivered over 180 presentations at scientific conferences, including more than 80 invited talks and seminars. Her contributions have been recognised with numerous national and international awards, such as the Intel European Research and Innovation Award, NPL Rayleigh Award and Serco Global Pulse Award.

Olga is a Fellow of the Institute of Physics and holds a professorship at the University of Manchester.

By Dr Karen Steward