The Quantum 100 is a global initiative celebrating individuals propelling the field of quantum science forward. Recognizing the diverse skillset needed, those selected represent a broad range of professions—spanning academia, industry, education, art, culture, journalism, and policy. Selection for The Quantum 100 was carried out by members of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ) steering committee and global coordination bureau, ensuring representation from universities, governments, and industry leaders worldwide.
The initiative also honors the legacy of Professor Raymond Laflamme, a pioneer in quantum information science. Laflamme made key contributions to quantum error correction, notably the Knill–Laflamme conditions, still fundamental for identifying and correcting errors in quantum systems. He co-invented the Knill–Laflamme–Milburn protocol, demonstrating the possibility of scalable quantum computing using linear optics, and led early experiments—including a 12-qubit nuclear magnetic resonance processor—that were the largest of their kind at the time.
Beyond specific technical achievements, The Quantum 100 and the remembrance of Professor Laflamme emphasize the importance of community in quantum science. Laflamme founded the Institute for Quantum Computing and was a founding faculty member of Perimeter Institute, establishing influential research centers. Through textbooks and national initiatives, he helped shape generations of quantum researchers, propelling the global quantum ecosystem forward, supported by IYQ’s partner, TFD.