Organized by the IDOR Pioneer Science initiative, the event will be held in Paraty, Rio de Janeiro, from August 11–15 

Over the past years, the Pioneer Science initiative has been committed to advancing Quantum Biology as a frontier research field in Brazil. Through strategic support for projects such as Neurophysics, the QBio community, and a series of events fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue, the initiative has helped nurture a growing ecosystem of researchers exploring fundamental questions at the intersection of biology and quantum physics. 

The School of Quantum Biology marks a bold step in this broader effort — designed to inspire a new generation of researchers to explore these frontiers, while fostering scientific exchange, supporting research development, and encouraging the formation of future specialists. 

Quantum biology itself is an emerging field that investigates how quantum phenomena may influence fundamental biological processes — from enzyme activity and photosynthesis to cognition and consciousness. By applying the principles of quantum mechanics to living systems, researchers hope to uncover mechanisms that could transform our understanding of life and its applications in health and medicine. 

Held in the historic coastal town of Paraty — known for its colonial charm and rich cultural heritage — the School part of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, reinforcing Brazil’s presence in the global scientific conversation.

With support from FAPERJ, Paradox, the Quantum Biology Institute and the Foundational Questions Institute (FQxI), the School contributes to shaping the future of this promising field. 

An immersive scientific experience: 

The School of Quantum Biology offers a five-day intensive program, including five specialized courses (four hours each) and international seminars, totaling over 20 hours of academic content. A poster session will foster interactive dialogue among participants, encouraging scientific exchange and collaboration. 

Conceived not only to deliver advanced training, the School aims to strengthen a new and collaborative research community in this emerging field. All selected participants — already confirmed — will have their travel and shared accommodations covered by the organization during the event. 

Objectives and vision: 

• Foster a collaborative research community, connecting early-career researchers and senior scientists working across disciplines.

• Encourage dialogue and exchange, through interactive formats and international partnerships. 

• Promote methodological rigor, with an emphasis on empirical evidence and clear scientific definitions. 

• Advance technical and theoretical skills, empowering participants to explore biological systems through quantum perspectives. 

Professors: 

The School brings together an exceptional group of educators and scientists each contributing their expertise through dedicated courses:

• Clarice Aiello – Quantum Biology Institute 
  Unveiling Quantum Biology 

• Marcelo Terra Cunha – Unicamp 
  From Classical to Quantum: A Journey Through the Fundamentals 

• Marucia Chacur – USP 
  Exploring Life: Principles of Cellular and Molecular Biology 

• Marcos César de Oliveira – Unicamp 
  Quantum Sensors and Their Applications in the Life Sciences 

• Pedro Pascutti – UFRJ 
  The Secret Life of Molecules: Computational Simulations and Quantum Modeling 

International seminars: 

Lectures by invited international scientists will take place in partnership with the IX Quantum Information Workshop, creating a space for vibrant interdisciplinary exchange: 

• Peter Hore – University of Oxford 
  Quantum Birds: a radical-pair magnetic compass mechanism 

• Clarice Aiello – Quantum Biology Institute 
  The tadpole experiment: how the development of life is affected by quantum physics 

• Paul Davies – Arizona State University 
  What Is Life? 

• Fabrisia Ambrosio – Harvard Medical School 
  A quantum-based model of muscle progenitor cell motility

A new chapter for science in Brazil: 

With participants already selected, the School of Quantum Biology marks the beginning of a new chapter for interdisciplinary science in Brazil. By investing in a new generation of researchers at the intersection of quantum physics and life sciences, the initiative aims to position Brazil as a hub for frontier research and global collaboration in this promising field. 

Partners: