December 17, 2025 -- The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ), a United Nations-declared year, today announced the launch of the Quantum 100: a global snapshot of careers & community to recognize and champion people around the world who are working to advance research, innovation, and education. The announcement follows a worldwide call for nominations, which resulted in more than 400 submissions from five continents, telling the stories of hundreds of dedicated people contributing to scientific discovery, translation, policy, mentorship, education, and public engagement.

While 2025 has seen quantum information science and technology come to the forefront of the global agenda, its progress will be limited without international cooperation, education, responsible innovation, and robust quantum research and development spanning academia and industry. The Quantum 100 showcases the many ways people are contributing to and advancing this field globally, and especially the importance of providing opportunities for aspiring professionals and scientists.

The Quantum 100 were selected by members of the IYQ steering committee and global coordination bureau, composed of representatives from each of the IYQ Founding Partners as well as leaders around the world from universities, research institutions, scientific societies, governments, and industry.

Representing people at every stage of their professional journey, the Quantum 100 spans academia, industry, education, art, journalism, and policy, reflecting a breadth of skills and specialization. The full Quantum 100 list can be found on the IYQ website, with a dedicated page for each person to showcase their accomplishments. From leading research in quantum computing, networking, and sensing, to international collaboration and policy-making, to reaching underserved communities through outreach and local engagement, the Quantum 100 encapsulates creativity, innovation, and scientific excellence.

“It has been a privilege to read the Quantum 100 submissions and hear about so many dedicated, inspiring, and supportive professionals who give so much to quantum science and technology,” said Andrew Forbes, Distinguished Professor within the School of Physics at the U. Witwatersrand (South Africa) and member of the IYQ Steering Committee. “Their varied perspectives, experience, and backgrounds reflect the range of skills needed for advancing this field and ensure the next 100 years of quantum are as impactful as the first.”