By Amanda Stein
Advancements in quantum information science promise exciting new applications, including for biomagnetism and biomedical research. While quantum computing garners the most attention and funding from governmental agencies, industry, and venture capital, optically probed quantum sensors are arguably the most mature quantum technology, including in the life sciences. Industry and startup companies are harnessing advancements in quantum sensors to bring innovative solutions to market. However, funding agencies (government and private) must continue to provide resources that support this mission.
Modern medicine demands new and innovative methods to study the body, gather data, and make more accurate diagnoses.
Well-established sensors use quantum effects, such as superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs). These sensors are used in research settings to detect very small magnetic signals and provide valuable insights into human physiology and brain function. Although scientifically useful, SQUIDs used for magnetocardiography and magnetoencephalography are challenged by their requirement for specialized cooling, complex electronics, and the need for shielded rooms, making it difficult to use these tools in clinical or hospital settings.
My colleagues and I believe that a new generation of quantum sensing is on the verge of a breakout — one that bridges the gap between research and real-world impact. The 21st century accelerated the development, engineering, and commercialization of quantum sensors, with a focus on new materials and the reduction of size, weight, power, and cost. Modern medicine demands new and innovative methods to study the body, gather data, and make more accurate diagnoses. For magnetocardiography and magnetoencephalography, this has meant new tools using optically probed quantum sensors, i.e., those based on atoms and nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond, such as what we have developed at Quantum Catalyzer. These sensors use quantum coherence to detect magnetic fields with sensitivity comparable to that of SQUIDs, but can operate at room temperature, be miniaturized, and be less burdensome for patients. These newer quantum sensors are also compatible with photonic readout techniques, advanced signal processing, and AI.
However, funding for the application development of quantum sensors has not kept pace with quantum computing. A gap exists between the funding that government and academic labs receive for basic research in quantum sensing and what is needed to commercialize useful systems, including clinical diagnostic tools.
The next steps include establishing dedicated funding streams — both public and private — that focus on quantum sensor integration for biomedical use cases, along with incentives that encourage partnerships among academia, startups, and health care systems. These funding streams can unlock the full potential of quantum sensing, making a significant impact on human lives.
Meet the author
Amanda Stein, Ph.D., is the CEO of Quantum Catalyzer (Q-Cat), an organization focused on the advancement of quantum sensing technology. She received her Ph.D. in information studies from the University of Maryland, College Park, and a master’s degree in management from George Washington University. Stein has devoted her career to translating deep tech through her time in government, academia, and startups; email: amanda@q-cat.io.
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