Background Breadcrumps Background Breadcrumps Mobile

Quantum Biology Community

About the Community

Quantum biology is an emerging field that arises from the intersection of two major areas of knowledge: biology and quantum physics. Understanding biological processes at the quantum level can lead to a better understanding of fundamental phenomena, significant advances in various fields such as biotechnology and neuroscience, and more effective treatment of complex diseases like cancer and inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.

Recognizing the potential of this area, Pioneer Science has been actively investing in scientific dissemination and the creation of a research community in quantum biology in Brazil. The goal is to stimulate the production of cutting-edge knowledge and foster the training of highly qualified researchers to work in this promising field. Learn about the actions that the Quantum Biology Community supports and develops below.

Actions

Quantum Biology School

The Quantum Biology School aims to bring together researchers, master’s and doctoral students, and exceptional undergraduate students with the goal of awakening a new generation of researchers’ 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 of study 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 videocast was recorded with international speakers and renowned guests to discuss the possible intersections of physics and biology, quantum phenomena, and the potential derivations of discoveries in the field.

There are seven episodes, which will be available until 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 shine 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 connects the mysterious ability of birds to navigate using the Earth’s magnetic field with the future of regenerative medicine? And what are the implications of this connection? An intriguing 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? With moderation by science communicator Pauline Davies, neuroscientist Maurícia Chacur and physicist Marcos Oliveira explore whether the brain can exhibit quantum effects and how sensors and quantum 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 episode of the series, biophysicist Pedro Pascutti and mathematical physicist Marcelo Cunha discuss the intersections of molecular biology and quantum fundamentals, moderated by science communicator Pauline Davies.

The last three episodes in Portuguese will be released by June 2026. Subscribe to the Pioneer Science YouTube channel to receive updates first-hand.

Have you ever imagined unraveling the mysteries of the connection between biology and quantum physics? Quantum biology presents a new perspective on how quantum phenomena influence biological processes, from medical applications to the navigation strategies of migratory birds, this field offers a new approach to understanding life and nature. This emerging area also opens doors to exciting research and career opportunities in various fields, including physics, biology, bioengineering, biotechnology, medicine, and environmental sciences.

The Quantum Biology Web Series was created as a unique opportunity to promote interaction with renowned researchers and professors in their fields and to create valuable connections that can pave the way for future collaborations. After the live screenings, the recordings are available on Pioneer Science’s YouTube channel in two seasons:

  • Introduction to Quantum Biology is the first project on this topic with five episodes in Portuguese, 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 meetings address various topics, such as the new perspectives of quantum sciences in oncology and their influences on the future of neuroscience.

The Quantum Bio BR Team is composed of researcher Marcelo Sousa, CEO of Bright Photomedicine, supported by Pioneer Science and IDOR, and PhD candidates Pedro Alvarez (University of Oldenburg) and Matheus Araña (École Polytechnique de Paris), who are dynamically and innovatively leading the series 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 their innovative work, promote collaborations, and contribute to the growth of the field of quantum biology.

Website: Frontiers | Quantum Biology

  • 12 articles already published
  • 51 authors

Guest Editors:

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

Participants

Marcelo Sousa

Community Leader
Researcher

Ana Luiza Quilici

PhD Student
Bolsista

Matheus Araña

PhD Student
Scholar

Pedro Alvarez

PhD Student
Scholar

Related Content

See also other related content

See all
  • January 29, 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.
  • January 9, 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...
  • January 8, 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.
  • January 9, 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...