Helmut Katzgraber, a former quantum leader at AWS and now a general partner at 55North, discusses the future of quantum computing, focusing on materials simulation and its potential impact on near-term applications. He emphasizes the importance of quantum simulation in materials, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, rather than optimization, as classical compute struggles with strongly correlated systems. Katzgraber highlights the need for a long-term perspective in quantum investments, with a focus on enabling technologies and software for error correction. He also discusses the challenges and opportunities in European quantum computing, including talent, capital, and product mindset. The interview covers the geopolitics of quantum, the quantum stack, and the role of cloud services in quantum computing. Katzgraber emphasizes the importance of treating quantum as a new compute modality and building hybrid workloads. He also discusses the future of on-premises quantum computers and the potential for full-stack solutions. The interview concludes with a discussion of workforce development and the need for product mindset in the quantum world.
