Science World Gathers at Koç University for UNESCO's Quantum Year Summit

WISE NEWS PRESS / ISTANBUL, TURKEY — Nov. 6, 2025

Koç University hosted the Summit on Quantum Technologies and the Future of Innovation on November 6, 2025, as part of UNESCO's designation of 2025 as the "World Year of Quantum Science and Quantum Technologies." The summit brought together leading quantum researchers, prominent academics, public and private sector representatives, and students, serving as an international meeting point for the future of quantum science and technology.

The event, held at Koç University's Rumelifeneri Campus, served as an international platform shaping the future of science, technology, and innovation, garnering significant interest.

The summit comprehensively addressed the role of quantum science and technologies in social and economic transformation, with participation from leading quantum researchers, globally respected academics, and representatives from the public and private sectors. Participants discussed the latest developments in quantum computing, communication, sensor technologies, data security, and artificial intelligence.

Prof. Dr. Metin Sitti: "Quantum Technologies Transform Our Way of Thinking"

In his opening speech, Koç University Rector Prof. Dr. Metin Sitti highlighted the strategic turning point that the quantum field represents for the future: "Science is humanity's most unifying language, bringing together different disciplines, institutions, and cultures around a common curiosity. Quantum science is one of the strongest examples of this unity, merging engineering, physics, and technology in the same crucible."

"At Koç University, we view quantum science not just as a field of research, but as a bridge between 'the language of physics and the limits of what is possible.' This summit reflects our university's commitment to interdisciplinary and globally impactful research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge."

He concluded: "Our goal is to position Turkey as a regional leader in quantum science and Koç University as a national center in this field."

Global Arm of Quantum Year in Turkey

The UNESCO global initiative aims to increase scientific awareness and highlight the interdisciplinary impact of quantum technologies. The summit hosted by Koç University represented the Turkish segment of the initiative, marking a crucial step in terms of scientific communication, international collaboration, and innovation culture.

Sessions during the summit explored not only the scientific but also the economic and strategic dimensions of quantum technologies. Participants evaluated the future impact of quantum-based solutions across various fields, from energy efficiency and drug development to data security and artificial intelligence.

Prof. Dr. Özgür Müstecaplıoğlu of the Koç University Physics Department emphasized the university's interdisciplinary knowledge base, spanning basic sciences to engineering, which is forming a center that will guide Turkey's quantum technologies ecosystem. "We are not only producing technology in quantum science but also discussing the ethical and social aspects of how these technologies will benefit humanity," he stated.

International Experts Highlight New Frontiers

International experts shared their insights on the rapidly evolving field:

• Prof. Dr. Gerd Leuchs (Director Emeritus of Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light) discussed the future of quantum optics, focusing on new measurement techniques that push the boundaries of quantum noise and the nature of light.

• Prof. Dr. Luis L. Sánchez-Soto (Universidad Complutense de Madrid and Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light) highlighted the capacity of quantum principles to measure even the smallest changes in nature in his talk on quantum metrology and sensor technologies.

• Prof. Dr. Mauro Paternostro (University of Palermo and Queen’s University Belfast) emphasized that the latest developments in quantum thermodynamics and information processing are ushering in a new era that transcends classical computers.

• Prof. Dr. Mete Atatüre (2024 Koç University Rahmi M. Koç Science Medal Laureate and Head of Cambridge University's Cavendish Laboratory) discussed the critical role of recent developments in quantum optics and solid-state quantum systems in transforming quantum technologies into real-world applications.

Scientific Ethics and Originality Addressed

A highlight of the summit was the special session led by Koç University titled, "Originality and Ethics in Scientific Publishing." The session emphasized the importance of originality, reliability, and adherence to ethical values in academic production, attracting a wide audience from young researchers to experienced academics.

The summit provided a strong platform for scientific exchange and collaboration between academia, industry, and the public sector, generating important contacts to strengthen Turkey's position in quantum technologies.

www.wisenewspress.com