Change Here

EustonX

Change Here is a podcast about the people, ideas, science and technologies shaping the future. Each episode brings together founders, researchers, investors, policymakers and industry leaders to explore breakthrough discoveries, emerging technologies and what it takes to turn innovation into real-world impact. With contributions from EustonX, Knowledge Quarter and other partners across the innovation ecosystem, Change Here uncovers the opportunities, challenges and collaborations driving change in our cities, economies and everyday lives.

Episodes

  1. Aug 26

    The future of Quantum at IBM

    In the first episode of the Change Here podcast, Adam Hammond, IBM's Quantum Business Lead for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, explores the rapidly advancing world of quantum computing and why many believe it could become one of the most important technologies of the coming decades. Drawing on his experience at IBM and years spent working at the forefront of emerging technologies, Hammond explains how quantum is moving from research labs into commercial applications, creating opportunities for businesses, governments and society. While quantum computing has been studied for decades, Hammond argues that the sector has reached a pivotal moment. Advances in hardware, software and algorithms are accelerating progress faster than many expected. He describes how research that once took years to reach practical use is now being translated into customer applications within months. This rapid pace of development is helping organisations move from curiosity about quantum to actively exploring how it could solve real business challenges. The conversation highlights the UK's strong position in the global quantum ecosystem. Hammond notes that the UK was an early investor in quantum technologies and has developed world-leading expertise across research and academia. However, he believes the next challenge is commercialisation. Success will depend not only on scientific breakthroughs but on creating products, applications and businesses that can deliver real value to organisations and the wider economy. A key theme is the potential economic impact of quantum computing. Hammond points to research suggesting the technology could drive significant productivity improvements across industries. From financial services and healthcare to logistics, manufacturing and energy, quantum computing could help organisations tackle complex problems that are difficult or impossible to solve using today's computing methods. One example discussed is molecular simulation, an area with enormous implications for healthcare and drug discovery. Hammond explains how quantum computers are becoming increasingly capable of modelling complex molecules, helping researchers better understand chemical interactions and accelerate scientific breakthroughs. He highlights the dramatic progress achieved in recent years as advances in algorithms have rapidly expanded what quantum systems can accomplish. The relationship between quantum computing and artificial intelligence also features prominently in the discussion. Rather than competing technologies, Hammond sees AI and quantum as complementary. AI is already being used to optimise quantum systems and reduce errors, while quantum computing could eventually help improve AI models and increase efficiency. In the future, different forms of computing power, including CPUs, GPUs and quantum processors, are likely to work together, with AI helping determine which technology is best suited to each task. The episode also explores how businesses are preparing for this future. Organisations including major banks are already investigating quantum applications and developing an understanding of where the technology could create value. While widespread adoption remains some years away, Hammond believes those starting the journey today will be best positioned to take advantage of future opportunities. Skills and talent represent another important challenge. Hammond argues that while quantum is often associated with physicists, the industry will also need mathematicians, data scientists, software developers and problem-solvers. He stresses the importance of mathematical thinking and analytical skills, suggesting that education systems must do more to prepare people for the emerging opportunities quantum technologies will create. With forecasts suggesting substantial job growth in the sector, building a skilled workforce will be critical.

    The future of Quantum at IBM
  • 1 Episode

About

Change Here is a podcast about the people, ideas, science and technologies shaping the future. Each episode brings together founders, researchers, investors, policymakers and industry leaders to explore breakthrough discoveries, emerging technologies and what it takes to turn innovation into real-world impact. With contributions from EustonX, Knowledge Quarter and other partners across the innovation ecosystem, Change Here uncovers the opportunities, challenges and collaborations driving change in our cities, economies and everyday lives.

Information

  • Creator
    EustonX
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    1
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © EustonX
  • Show Website
    Change Here