The PQS2D Symposium was featured as part of the 2026 CAP Congress and was held on Symposium Day, June 24, 2026, at the University of Ottawa.
It was entitled Advancing Quantum Simulation based on 2 Dimensional Materials Through Canadian Collaboration with the following theme:
The field of quantum science and technology, focusing specifically on quantum simulation, deals with the development of novel quantum systems and hardware to realize new approaches to understanding and controlling complex quantum many-body systems on different time and energy scales.
The Programmable Quantum Simulators Based on 2-Dimensional (2D) Materials initiative, supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), is a national-scale research effort uniting three Canadian quantum hubs. The collaboration spans eight research groups across six universities and includes three industry partners.
The project is structured around three core goals: design and construct a specialized quantum simulator capable of emulating the complex behavior of quantum systems; implement programmable quantum devices leveraging 2D material-based hardware platforms; and build large-area high-quality 2D materials and theoretical models to enhance the development of quantum devices and their fabrication.
This initiative targets fundamental challenges in quantum phases of matter, including correlated insulators, superconductors, Wigner crystals, topological phases, spin liquids and magnetism. Beyond fundamental science, it holds promise for technological breakthroughs, such as unraveling mechanisms behind high-temperature superconductivity or optimizing the performance of quantum materials (semiconductors, magnets, ferroelectrics, and topological materials) for applications in electronics and optoelectronics.
The symposium will bring together Canadian physicists to present the initiative recent advances and ongoing challenges, highlight potential industrial and academic impacts and foster new collaborations within the Canadian quantum research ecosystem.
The Schedule was the following:
The PQS2D members participating in the event, along with the invited speakers, gathered for a dinner at Working Title Kitchen.
Programmable quantum simulators based on 2D materials 