College of Computing - Distinguished Seminar by Prof. Xiaobo ZHU: Quantum Computing: the Past, Present and Beyond
15 January 2026 (Thursday)
The College of Computing (CC) was honoured to host a Distinguished Seminar on 15 January 2026, featuring Prof. Xiaobo ZHU, a Professor at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) and a leading expert in quantum computing. The seminar, titled "Quantum Computing: the Past, Present and Beyond", attracted a large and enthusiastic audience of CityUHK faculty, students and alumni keen to gain insights into one of the most transformative technologies of our time.
In the seminar, Prof. Zhu traced quantum computing's trajectory from foundational breakthroughs to today's cutting-edge developments. He discussed significant milestones achieved by the "Zuchongzhi" superconducting quantum processor and highlighted the latest advancements in quantum error correction – a critical frontier in making quantum computers more reliable and practical.
Prof. Zhu stressed that quantum computing is a marathon requiring at least another decade before large-scale applications. Building a robust ecosystem — including processors, cloud platforms, and software – will be decisive. He concluded that while challenges remain, quantum computing offers immense opportunities to reshape industries and strengthen technological sovereignty.
Faculty members, students, and alumni engaged actively throughout the presentation, with particularly lively discussions during the Q&A session. Attendees left with valuable insights into both the scientific challenges and immense opportunities in quantum computing.
(From left)
Prof. Qi WU, Director of Flagship Programme of College of Computing;
Prof. Shiqi WANG, Associate Dean of College of Computing (Internationalisation and Industry);
Mr. Zhehui WANG, General Manager of QuantumCtek (Shanghai);
Prof. Xiaobo ZHU, our Speaker, Professor of University of Science and Technology of China;
Prof. Jianping WANG, Dean of College of Computing;
Prof. Jing LIN, Adjunct Professor of Department of Data Science;
Prof. Minming LI, Associate Dean of College of Computing (Education);
Prof. Nan GUAN, Associate Head of Department of Computer Science
This Distinguished Seminar exemplified the College of Computing's commitment to fostering a vibrant community of international scholars and learners. By hosting world-class researchers like Prof. Zhu, the College continues to inspire students and faculty to engage with transformative technologies and contribute to solving humanity's greatest challenges.