Study highlights the importance of responsible innovation to the future of quantum computing

A new whitepaper published by EY and the University of Oxford’s Responsible Technology Institute (RTI) has outlined the importance of responsible innovation and proactive risk mitigation when navigating the potential of emerging technologies, such as quantum computing.

Quantum computing is a type of computing that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to perform complex calculations differently and much faster than classical computers in selected application areas. Use cases include facilitating new drug discovery and financial modelling.

Although this powerful new computational technique is exciting, the whitepaper stresses the need for a pragmatic view and recognition of the engineering challenges that must be overcome for the full potential of commercial quantum computing to be realised.

Shifting how we speak about quantum computing to foster trust

As part of the whitepaper, a survey of technologists, researchers and policymakers was conducted to identify general attitudes towards emerging technologies, the threats and opportunities it may bring, and the role of governance and governments in technological innovation.

Half of surveyed respondents (50%) agreed there is value in generating societal excitement about emerging technologies (e.g., to raise capital), however, 84% also believe that claims made around such technologies are often overblown or exaggerated in popular discourse.

Mira Pijselman, Digital Ethics Lead at EY said: “The whitepaper’s findings indicate that counteracting misleading information and engaging in responsible science communication are key dimensions of practicing responsible innovation in relation to quantum computing. We have already seen concerns with underperforming products, loss of public trust, and active societal harms in technology spaces adjacent to quantum computing – such as artificial intelligence (AI) – where ‘hype’ may be used to propel interests and narratives that are not always aligned with public good.

“It’s important that we learn from history and communicate accurately and responsibly when speaking about quantum computing technology.”

Collaboration is key to harnessing quantum computing’s full potential

The whitepaper calls for a responsible innovation approach towards the development of a quantum ecosystem, which involves adopting a long-term view on the type of world we want to live in. To develop this long-term perspective and ensure it’s representative of different disciplinary outlooks, lived experiences and world views, the whitepaper recommends strong collaboration between academia, the private sector and government as the commercialisation of quantum computing progresses.

Respondents also supported a collaborative approach with 87% agreeing that it’s important to involve many different groups, including policymakers and advisers, in the development of new technologies. Most respondents (92%) also agreed that government should be involved in funding the development of new technologies to ensure an inclusive and collaborative environment that benefits the entire ecosystem.

Mira Pijselman comments: “Our research reinforces the importance of bringing sociotechnical talent into development communities. This is essentially about working collaboratively with a whole range of stakeholders when developing new technologies. While deep technical knowledge is crucial, particularly with quantum computing, we also need individuals with legal, commercial, and ethical skillsets to effectively engage in technology foresight and eventually, enable governance. Through more meaningful dialogue and collaboration across the quantum ecosystem, we can shape the trajectory of quantum computing to enable, not only commercial scalability, but also sustainability for present and future generations.”

Dr Carolyn Ten Holter at the University of Oxford added: “The whitepaper champions an ethical and responsible approach to the management of quantum computing’s considerable potential, while providing the theoretical grounding and practical steps required to ensure we can achieve this.”