AUDIO ARTICLE: Outside the box. Can quantum computing change materials science?

The trial-and-error method has long been the modus operandi for developing stronger and more flexible metallic materials. Computational technology has greatly accelerated and simplified their advancement. However, even the most powerful computers have their limits. Materials physicist Martin Friák from the Institute of Physics of Materials of the CAS sees the future in quantum computing, which holds the key to overcoming these obstacles. ​​This audio feature is based on the article written by Leona Matušková, which you can read in full in the quarterly magazine of the CAS. In the 2024 article, the author introduces the planned quantum computer at the IT4Innovations supercomputing center in Ostrava. It went online in autumn 2025. It became operational in autumn 2025. The English issue is available online via the Czech Academy of Sciences website, or you can request a print copy by emailing [email protected]​.Narrated by: Daniel Zappi / Editing and sound design: Jáchym Vans / Produced with support from the CAS Strategy AV21.