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Quantum Biology Community

About the Community

Quantum biology is an emerging field that arises at the intersection of two major areas of knowledge: biology and quantum physics. Understanding biological processes at the quantum level may lead to a better grasp of fundamental phenomena, to significant advances in areas such as biotechnology and neuroscience, and to more effective treatments for complex diseases such as cancer and inflammatory and neurodegenerative conditions.

Recognizing the potential of this field, Pioneer Science has been actively investing in science communication and in building a quantum biology research community in Brazil. The goal is to stimulate cutting-edge knowledge production and foster the training of highly qualified researchers to work in this promising field. See below the initiatives that the Quantum Biology Community supports and develops.

Initiatives

Quantum Biology School

The Quantum Biology School brings together researchers, master’s and PhD students, and outstanding undergraduates, with the goal of sparking in a new generation of researchers an interest in working at the intersections of quantum physics and biology.

With a comprehensive curriculum covering theory, experimentation, and computational simulation, the Quantum Biology School aims to prepare students to unravel the mysteries of biological processes through the lens of quantum mechanics, driving research and innovation in a field that promises to revolutionize science and medicine.

The Quantum Biology School has been supported by Faperj, Paradox Science Institute, FQxI, Quantum Biology Institute, and the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.

Watch the video below and click the button to learn more about the first edition, held in August 2025 in Paraty, RJ.

During the Quantum Biology School, a video podcast was recorded with international speakers and renowned guests discussing the potential intersections of physics and biology, quantum phenomena, and the possible implications of discoveries in the field.

Seven episodes will be released through May 2026.

  • “Where science meets mystery: exploring quantum biology” with theoretical physicist Paul Davies and quantum engineer Clarice Aiello, moderated by science communicator Pauline Davies. The researchers debate whether life is fundamentally quantum. From photons in human cells — can we really glow in the dark? — to the mysteries of consciousness, you will be immersed in a fascinating discussion.
  • “Life’s quantum secrets: how birds navigate and bodies heal”: What links the mysterious ability of birds to navigate using the Earth’s magnetic field to the future of regenerative medicine? And what are the implications of that connection? A thought-provoking conversation with professor and executive Fabrisia Ambrosio and physicist Peter Hore, moderated by science communicator Pauline Davies.
  • “Quantum sensing, consciousness, and the future of technology”: Could quantum mechanics help us understand the brain and shape our technological future? Moderated by science communicator Pauline Davies, neuroscientist Maurícia Chacur and physicist Marcos Oliveira explore whether the brain may exhibit quantum effects and how quantum sensors and computing could transform society by 2050.
  • “Quantum life: from molecules to fundamental laws”: Is life simply chemistry — or are there deeper quantum laws at play? In the last English-language episode of the series, biophysicist Pedro Pascutti and mathematical physicist Marcelo Cunha discuss the intersections of molecular biology and quantum foundations, moderated by science communicator Pauline Davies.

The last three Portuguese-language episodes will be released through June 2026. Subscribe to the Pioneer Science YouTube channel to get them first.

Ever imagined unraveling the mysteries at the intersection of biology and quantum physics? Quantum biology offers a new perspective on how quantum phenomena influence biological processes — from medical applications to the navigation strategies of migratory birds — opening a new way to understand life and nature. This emerging area also opens doors to exciting research and career opportunities across physics, biology, bioengineering, biotechnology, medicine, and environmental sciences.

The Quantum Biology Web Series was created as a unique opportunity to foster engagement with leading researchers and professors in their fields and to build valuable connections that can open the way for future collaborations. After the live broadcasts, the recordings are available on the Pioneer Science YouTube channel in two seasons:

  • Introduction to Quantum Biology is the first project on this topic, with five Portuguese-language episodes, led by the Quantum Bio BR Team in 2023.
  • Quantum Biology in Medicine is the second season of the web series, launched after the success of the first. Five sessions cover a range of topics, including new perspectives on quantum sciences in oncology and their influence on the future of neuroscience.

The Quantum Bio BR Team comprises researcher Marcelo Sousa, CEO of Bright Photomedicine and supported by Pioneer Science and IDOR, along with PhD candidates Pedro Alvarez (University of Oldenburg) and Matheus Araña (École Polytechnique de Paris), who are leading the series in a dynamic and innovative way for a broad and diverse audience.

The Special Issue published in the journal Frontiers in Photonics aims to highlight recent advances, discoveries, and applications at the intersection of quantum physics and biology, as well as related topics. This publication serves as a platform for renowned scientists and researchers to share innovative work, foster collaborations, and contribute to the growth of the quantum biology field.

Website: Frontiers | Quantum Biology

  • 12 articles already published
  • 51 authors

Guest editors:

  • Marcelo Sousa (Pioneer Science | Bright)
  • Clarice Aiello (Institute of Quantum Biology)
  • Paul Davies (Arizona State University)
  • Johnjoe McFadden (University of Surrey)

Participantes

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  • 29 de January de 2026

    Quantum Biology School

    Celebrating the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, the Quantum Biology School gathers researchers and students to explore the intersection between quantum physics and biological processes.
  • 09 de January de 2026

    Introduction to Quantum Biology — Season One

    Já imaginou desvendar os mistérios da conexão entre biologia e a física quântica? É uma oportunidade única para você interagir com pesquisadores e professores conceituados em suas áreas e criar...
  • 08 de January de 2026

    Quantum Biology in Medicine — Season Two

    Following the success of its first season, the Quantum Biology series returns with a new batch of episodes — now focused on medicine.
  • 09 de January de 2026

    Quantum Bio BR Summit

    De novas tecnologias para diagnóstico à compreensão aprofundada dos fenômenos da natureza, a biologia quântica abrange um fascinante universo a ser explorado pela ciência. Nos dias 21 e 22 de...