- This event has passed.
Mathematics/Computer Science: Quantum Computing & Cybersecurity with Dr Mike Pound and Dr Xavier Carpent from University of Nottingham
June 11 @ 16:15 - 17:00
In this Mathematics/Computer Science session, Dr Mike Pound and Dr Xavier Carpent from the School of Computer Science at University of Nottingham will run an interactive talk for students on Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity.
What if the technology that protects your passwords, bank accounts, and private messages suddenly stopped working? Quantum computers could one day transform computing in ways that go far beyond simply being faster/better/stronger than today’s machines. In this session, we’ll explore what quantum computers actually are, how they fundamentally differ from the computers we use every day, and why this matters for digital security.
Together, we’ll investigate how modern cryptography keeps the internet secure, and why some of the encryption systems protecting our data today could become vulnerable in a future with quantum computers. We’ll also explore the concept of “harvest now, decrypt later”, where encrypted information collected today could potentially be decrypted years into the future.
Through interactive examples and discussion, students will discover the challenges researchers are facing in preparing for the quantum era, including the development of new forms of so-called “post-quantum cryptography” designed to keep our digital world secure for the next evolution in computing.
Lecturer Profiles: Dr Mike Pound and Dr Xavier Carpent
Our events are designed so that a group of students can take part from a classroom or students and teachers can take part as individuals, either from school or from home. There is no charge to take part.
As a live, participative event, this session will not be recorded but slides and other resources will be shared after the event, where available.
Suitable for: 16+ pre-university students studying, or with a possible interest in studying, Computer Science, Mathematics and related disciplines. Student groups as well as students and teachers joining individually are very welcome.
Preparation/Pre-Reading: Students are encouraged to consider some of the issues and questions they may have. Students can also think about questions about studying at university level.
The IT Setup: The event will be run on Zoom and participants will be able to join using laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. If you are joining as a school group, we recommend connecting with one device and projecting on to a whiteboard. You will be able to interact with the speaker via typed comments and questions and/or via a microphone. Full details will be sent to those who have registered (see below) prior to the event.
Booking a Place: This is free for schools and colleges. If you would like to take part in this event, please register your interest using the link to the registration form below: