Workshop on Quantum Blockchain: challenges and opportunities for a disruptive approach on distributed ledger technologies (BL-QUANTUM)

Scope

Blockchain is a distributed database which is cryptographically protected against non consensed modifications. While promising for a wide range of applications, current blockchain platforms rely on digital signatures, which are vulnerable to attacks by means of quantum computers. The same applies to cryptographic hash functions that are used in preparing new blocks, so parties with access to quantum computation would have unfair advantage in procuring mining rewards. 

This Workshop on Quantum Blockchain aims to explore the intersection of quantum computing and blockchain technology. As quantum computing continues to advance, it introduces novel paradigms that have the potential to reshape the landscape of blockchain applications and its governance. And also seeks to provide a platform for researchers, academicians, and industry professionals to delve into the synergies between quantum computing and blockchain, addressing the theoretical foundations, practical implementations, and emerging challenges in this burgeoning field.

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Topics

• Theoretical Foundations of Quantum Blockchain: researching the theoretical underpinnings of quantum computing and its integration with blockchain technology, and explorring quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms for securing blockchain transactions in the era of quantum computing.
• Quantum-Safe Blockchain Protocols: examining existing blockchain protocols and propose quantum-resistant enhancements to ensure long-term security, and discussing the design and implementation of quantum-safe consensus mechanisms and smart contracts.
• Practical Implementations and Use Cases: showcase real-world applications of quantum blockchain, emphasizing its potential impact on industries such as finance, healthcare, and supply chain, and exploring the challenges and opportunities of integrating quantum blockchain into existing technological ecosystems.
• Quantum Network Security: addressing the implications of quantum key distribution (QKD) on blockchain network security, and/or discussing methods for securing communication channels in a quantum-enabled blockchain environment.
• Ethical and Regulatory Considerations: examinimng the ethical implications of quantum blockchain, including privacy concerns and potential societal impacts, and/or discussing regulatory frameworks and guidelines for the responsible development and deployment of quantum blockchain technologies.

The Workshop on Quantum Blockchain aims to facilitate a comprehensive exploration of the transformative potential that arises from the integration of quantum computing and blockchain. Through collaborative discussions and the dissemination of cutting-edge research, participants will contribute to the advancement of knowledge in this rapidly evolving interdisciplinary field.