For four days, Naples established itself as a landmark for the Italian quantum ecosystem by hosting the NQSTI (National Quantum Science and Technology Institute), The event took place from April 14th to 17th at the Città della Scienza.
This event of national and international significance brought together over 600 participants, including researchers, universities, research centers, and businesses. All are dedicated to the development of quantum technologies—currently one of the most promising sectors for scientific and industrial innovation.
The congress opened on World Quantum Day with a day dedicated to outreach and communication. Secondary school students participated in activities designed to introduce the younger generation to the principles and applications of quantum physics, highlighting NQSTI’s commitment to spreading scientific culture and building future skills.
Over the following days, the program provided a comprehensive overview of the state of the art in Italian quantum research. Sessions focused on quantum computing, secure communications, advanced sensors, new materials, and industrial applications. Particular emphasis was placed on technology transfer and the dialogue between academia and industry—key drivers for accelerating the adoption of deep-tech solutions.
Within this framework, NetCom and QuantumNet actively participated, contributing to the discussion on application scenarios and tangible innovation opportunities.
A major highlight was the presentation by Alfredo Troiano, who introduced the QRDT (Quantum Resilience Digital Twin) project during a session on quantum knowledge transfer.
The QRDT project proposes an advanced approach to managing the resilience of critical digital infrastructures. It integrates several heterogeneous technologies into a single platform:
- Digital Twins
- Artificial Intelligence
- High Performance Computing (HPC)
- Hybrid quantum-classical optimization techniques
The platform is designed to model and simulate the behavior of complex systems—such as energy grids, telecommunications infrastructure, and cloud environments—even under critical operating conditions. By using Digital Twin models and advanced analysis, QRDT dynamically represents interactions between system components, supporting forecasting, risk analysis, and response strategy planning.
A distinctive feature of the project is the integration of hybrid optimization algorithms. These combine classical and quantum approaches to tackle computationally complex problems like resource management, fault resilience, and recovery from extreme events, including cyber-physical attacks and cascading failures.
The platform is validated through the simulation of realistic, high-impact operational scenarios. The goal is to support more informed decision-making and improve the security and operational continuity of vital infrastructure.
As the complexity of digital infrastructure grows, initiatives like QRDT demonstrate how integrating advanced technologies—including quantum computing—can offer concrete answers to emerging challenges. This contributes to building more resilient, intelligent, and secure systems.
Ultimately, the congress proved to be more than just a premier scientific event; it acted as an innovation accelerator and a meeting point for the expertise, vision, and opportunities that will define the future of quantum technology in Italy.
