However, we are not quite there yet. Within the Nordic region, Denmark is currently ahead of its neighboring countries when it comes to investment and commitment in quantum technology. Mathiesen generously shared his experiences during his presentation at the Sensor Decade conference in Oslo. When asked directly by conference host Aksel Faanes Persson on how far the Nordic countries can go in the global race, Mathiesen replied that the possibilities are significant.
“If we truly want it, we in the Nordic region can become one of the top three players in the world. We are experiencing that many international companies visit us to see what we are doing in quantum technology, and therefore I believe we have momentum as a region,” said the Danish institute director.
In addition, Denmark has large private investment funds such as Novo Nordisk, several startups, a government that prioritizes advanced technology, and a strong culture of private-sector investment in research and development.
A Conference for Sensor Technology
For the third time, Norway’s sensor community gathered at Sensor Decade in Oslo. The entire conference is dedicated to sensor technology across a range of disciplines. The conference was opened by Mehmet Kaan Inan, Oslo’s City Commissioner for Culture and Business Development.
“No one succeeds alone. Success requires collaboration across disciplines, sectors, and national borders,” said Inan in his opening address.
This year’s program was built around key themes demonstrating how sensors influence different parts of society. The aim is to create a deeper understanding of how sensors provide the foundation for data, which in turn forms the basis for decision-making in society. Solveig Kristensen, Dean at the University of Oslo, highlighted the importance of technological infrastructure in her opening remarks.
“Through MiNaLab, the University of Oslo and SINTEF work closely together to develop the next generation of sensors and microchip technology, creating research and innovation in healthcare, energy, ocean industries, space technology, and quantum technology,” she said.
Quantum technology is now opening new opportunities to create value from sensors, she said from the stage, a point that was also emphasized by Mats Carlin, Director of Research at SINTEF Digital, in his presentation.
“My passion is to bring technology into society through products, processes, and services. That requires a combination of knowledge and talent from universities, together with innovative companies and access to capital,” Carlin said.
Building a culture of curiosity
The level of ambition is high for what Norway and its neighboring countries hope to achieve in deep technology, and collaboration and learning are essential. Linn Winsnes Thrane, Vice President of the Technology Office at Kongsberg, highlighted three key priorities for navigating the roadmap toward a quantum-ready society.
“We must explore, remain curious, and build relationships. We should also run pilot projects together in order to share and learn from each other’s expertise. Finally, we should think about strategic scaling when the technology and funding are ready,” said Thrane.
She was followed by a panel discussion focusing on how quantum technology is now moving from the laboratory into society. Countries that succeed in building strong ecosystems combining research, industry, investment, and government support will be best positioned to benefit from the next major technological revolution.
“Security is another aspect, and makes it even more important going forward. It is a global race, but we are stronger together,” said Monika Sandnesmo, Head of the Norwegian Quantum Cluster.
Facts About The Sensor Decade
The Sensor Decade conference runs over two days and is organized through a collaboration between SINTEF, Oslo Science City, the University of Oslo, StartupLab, Electronic Coast, and NGI as an Oslo Science City Arena conference.
Kongsberg, Sony, and CC-NorChip are industry partners.
The Sensor Decade is also a meeting place for the next generation of technologists. Student exhibitions and startup arenas are central parts of the event, focusing on showcasing new ideas and lowering the barriers to collaboration between established companies and young talent.
More information about the conference is available at: https://sensordecade.com
