Dear Mr. Freier, thank you for taking the time. Would you introduce yourself for our readers.

I am a physicist and co-founder of Nomad Atomics, a startup that specializes in so-called quantum sensors. I received my PhD in physics from the Humboldt University in 2017 and then worked as a postdoc at the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, Australia. Since 2020, I have been working on building Nomad Atomics, first in Australia and now in Berlin.

How was Nomad Atomics founded? Which challenges do you want to tackle and what solutions are you focusing on?

Already during my research work at the Humboldt University in Berlin and the Australian National University, I was particularly attracted by the possible applications. There, I was interested in precision measurements with so-called atom interferometers whose accuracy in the laboratory was already extremely high. The challenge was to turn laboratory experiments into compact and robust sensors. However, the latter then enable exciting applications in resource exploration, navigation and geosciences. At ANU, an excellent constellation came together in 2020 with two like-minded postdocs, and now co-founders, as well as a startup incubator to advance this development in a startup.

What advantages do atomic quantum sensors have compared to classical sensors and in what areas are they used?

The advantages of atomic quantum sensors are the excellent accuracy, precision and the perspective to integrate all components for mobile applications in compact and robust form factors. Currently, we are focusing on the development of a portable quantum gravimeter for field measurement of density changes in the subsurface. Compared to classical sensors, such density changes become practically measurable over longer periods of time for the first time.

Initial fields of application are in the resource sector, such as the exploration of deposits. However, we are also very interested in novel applications such as the measurement of groundwater recharge, or the monitoring of the "tightness" of CO2 deposits in the subsurface. Furthermore, we are engaged in the development of accelerometers. These will be part of future navigation systems that will work reliably even without GPS.

Nomad Atomics is headquartered in Australia. Where did the connection to Berlin and finally the establishment of a second headquarters in the Innovation and Start-up Center Adlershof (IGZ) come from?

A presence in the European ecosystem for quantum technologies was important to us. Berlin is generally known as a Europe-wide hotspot for start-ups, but it has also become a research and innovation center in quantum technologies. Our own connection to Berlin came from my time at Humboldt University. It was just a very good fit for us. Decisive factors for us in choosing the IGZ were its proximity to the Adlershof research site, networking with other companies in the field of optics and photonics, and the flexibility in renting office and laboratory spaces.

Optical technologies and sensor technology in particular are one of Berlin's strengths. How come?

I think that several factors come together for this. Berlin has renowned universities and research institutions in this field, some with a long tradition. Added to this is a culture of innovation and collaboration with the industry. This is continuously strengthened by networks such as OptecBB and by regional and national funding programs. In general, Berlin's central location in Europe naturally makes it an ideal place for international collaboration and access to European markets.

Quantum technology is an emerging topic: How would you assess the importance of quantum communication and quantum cryptography for society and the technology industry in the coming years? How does Germany stand in this field, also in comparison to other countries such as the USA, China or Australia, for example?

In my opinion, quantum communication and cryptography, similar to quantum sensing, will play a growing role in various areas of the technology industry in the future. Mid term, this will come from "quantum-proofed" encrypted communications through quantum key transmission. In the longer term, direct transmission of so-called qubits between quantum computers or sensors could be transformative.

Germany has made significant investments in the QT field and has a number of leading research institutes as well as a growing startup scene in this area. The U.S. has traditionally been a leader in quantum information technology, however, China has been catching up rapidly in recent years with huge investments. Many countries thus recognize the potential of quantum technology, and Germany should continue its efforts in this area in order to remain internationally competitive.

Berlin is often referred to as an important location for research and innovation in quantum technology: How do you benefit from the QT ecosystem in Berlin?

Berlin can build quite well on its strengths in optics/photonics here. Of course, we seek contact with local research institutes and universities in order to identify research results relevant to quantum sensor technology and to translate them into innovative products. Since this usually requires staying power and considerable resources, funding programs are often important in the implementation of such projects, and fortunately they do exist. Furthermore, networking with other participants in the QT ecosystem helps us in the early identification of trends, potential partners and markets. Finally, Berlin's reputation as a metropolis in the heart of Europe is also helpful in finding talent.

What advantages does the city of Berlin offer companies for the development and implementation of projects, also with regard to funding conditions?

The spatial proximity of companies and research institutions, such as in the Adlershof, is certainly a plus, especially for collaborative projects. In addition to national and EU-wide funding, the regional funding programs of the Investionsbank Berlin (IBB) should also be mentioned, which can support such projects with grants or loans. Furthermore, there are offers for small and medium-sized enterprises and startups, such as Berlin Partner. These provide assistance with classic challenges such as the preparation of business plans. Funding applications or the search for investors.