The advent of future quantum computers poses a significant challenge to cyber security, as powerful quantum computers could break current cryptographic systems protecting data and trust in our digital infrastructure and society. This looming threat has catalyzed the development of post-quantum cryptography over the last decade, with quantum-safe cryptographic algorithms recently standardized. However, migrating the world’s digital systems to quantum safe cryptography represents an unprecedented technical and logistical challenge, requiring coordination across governments, industries, and legacy systems built over decades.

In his talk, Dr. Marc Stoecklin will examine both the challenges introduced by quantum computing as well as the scientific and practical obstacles faced by a global transition to quantum safe cryptography in time to protect our digital world.

Marc Ph. Stoecklin is a Principal Research Scientist at IBM Research Europe and holds the position of Head of Security Research since 2019. His career at IBM Research began with an internship he completed as part of his master’s thesis in 2006. He has contributed to several cybersecurity projects, including key IBM technologies based on artificial intelligence to detect and combat cyber threats. He currently leads the “Quantum Safe Cryptography” strategy at IBM Research, allowing him to work on numerous significant advancements to secure the digital world globally for the quantum era.

5:30pm Doors open

6pm Welcome address – Leïla Ojjeh, EPFL Alumni Director

6:05pm Introduction – Jean-Pierre Hubaux, Academic director of C4DT EPFL

6:10pm Campus Lecture: Marc Ph. Stoecklin

6:40pm Q&A

7pm Networking aperitif

8pm End of the event