The quantum technology sector encompasses research and development activities that apply quantum mechanics to computing, sensing, and communication technologies. A new joint study from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the European Patent Office (EPO) finds that after more than a decade of rapid expansion, the sector is entering a more focused phase marked by maturing technologies, shifting investment patterns, and evolving workforce needs.
For laboratory professionals, these trends carry implications for staffing models, capital planning, and operational resilience. Quantum research relies on highly specialized facilities, advanced instrumentation, and scarce technical expertise, making ecosystem-level shifts especially relevant to lab managers responsible for long-term planning.
Patent growth reflects sustained research intensity
The study maps global activity across the quantum technology sector and shows that international patent families related to quantum technologies increased sevenfold between 2005 and 2024. Growth accelerated after 2014, far outpacing overall patent growth across other technology areas.
Quantum computing emerged as the most dynamic segment, with patenting activity increasing nearly 20-fold over the past decade and surpassing that of quantum communication in 2022. For research laboratories, this sustained patent output signals continued demand for experimental platforms such as cryogenic systems, precision lasers, spectroscopy tools, nanofabrication facilities, and ultra-stable measurement environments.
As the sector matures, labs may see a shift from exploratory proof-of-concept experiments toward more standardized workflows that support reproducibility, benchmarking, and technology transfer. This transition places greater emphasis on quality systems, documentation, and coordination between research, engineering, and facilities teams.
Quantum research workforce remains highly specialized
The study confirms that the quantum research workforce remains strongly science-driven. More than half of quantum start-up founders hold a PhD, compared with roughly ten percent among founders more broadly. Job postings are concentrated in computer science, science and research roles, and education and training, while commercialization-focused roles represent a relatively small share of hiring.
For lab managers, this workforce profile reinforces ongoing challenges in recruitment and retention. Maintaining a competitive quantum research program often requires access to advanced equipment, stable funding, and clear professional development pathways for highly trained staff.
As firm creation has plateaued since 2021, competition for experienced personnel may intensify, increasing the importance of cross-training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and long-term workforce planning within laboratories.
Investment trends influence laboratory funding strategies
Total investment volumes in the quantum technology sector peaked in 2021, declined through 2023, and partially recovered in 2024. Although the number of firms receiving funding has remained relatively stable, average deal sizes have decreased, reflecting broader venture capital market conditions.
This investment environment can affect laboratory budgeting and capital acquisition timelines. Lab managers may face increased scrutiny of large equipment purchases and greater pressure to demonstrate utilization, scalability, and alignment with institutional priorities.
Public funding continues to play a central role. Over the past decade, 18 OECD countries have adopted national quantum strategies, and public R&D funding has increased steadily, shaping grant availability and expectations for laboratory readiness.
Quantum laboratory infrastructure and supply chain risk
The study highlights growing concentration and dependencies in global supply chains for critical quantum inputs, including industrial diamonds, aluminum oxide, and oxometallic salts. These materials support components used in quantum sensors, optical systems, and specialized substrates.
For quantum laboratory infrastructure, constrained access to critical materials can delay experiments, extend equipment downtime, and complicate procurement planning. Lab managers may need to work closely with procurement teams to diversify suppliers, establish inventory buffers, and anticipate longer lead times for specialized components.
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“Quantum technologies have the potential to unlock higher productivity and drive scientific breakthroughs,” said OECD secretary general Mathias Cormann. “This will require ensuring the right conditions for these technologies to scale, from investment and skills to resilient supply chains.”
As the quantum technology sector moves into a more focused phase, laboratory leaders play a central role in translating ecosystem-level trends into operational decisions that support sustained research performance.
This article was created with the assistance of Generative AI and has undergone editorial review before publishing.
