Prof. Artur Ekert: Quantum Cryptography - Exploring the Ultimate Physical Limits of Privacy

Among those who make a living from the science of secrecy, worry and paranoia are just signs of professionalism. Can we protect our secrets against those who wield superior technological powers? Can we trust those who provide us with tools for protection? Can we even trust ourselves, our own freedom of choice? Recent developments in quantum cryptography show that some of these questions can be addressed and discussed in precise and operational terms, suggesting that privacy is indeed possible under surprisingly weak assumptions. Artur Ekert is a Professor of Quantum Physics at the Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford, and a Lee Kong Chian Centennial Professor at the National University of Singapore and also the Director of CQT (Centre for Quantum Technologies). His research interests span most aspects of information processing in quantum-mechanical systems, with a focus on quantum communication and quantum computation. He is best known as one of the inventors of quantum cryptography. --------- CUPS - Cambridge University Physics Society We are a student-run university society organising scientific talks and other events for our members and public. CUPS is all about the physics you don't do in your degree. FIND US ON THE INTERNET: Website - http://www.camphysoc.co.uk Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/camphysoc Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/camphysoc talks.cam - http://talks.cam.ac.uk/show/index/6558