Finnish physicist reaches final of the European Inventor Award 2026
A Finnish quantum technology scientist, Academy Professor Mikko Möttönen, has been selected as a finalist in the ‘Research’ category of the European Inventor Award 2026. Möttönen has developed a new type of cryogenic microwave sensor that helps detect microwave radiation, which interferes with the operation of quantum computers. The invention improves the reliability of quantum hardware and significantly advances the development of quantum technology.
The invention enables more precise measurement of quantum signals
Unlike conventional computers, quantum computers process information using quantum bits, known as qubits. Their quantum states are highly sensitive to environmental disturbances, which is why the systems require temperatures near absolute zero to operate. Even a very small amount of additional microwave radiation can significantly affect the measurement results.
The cryogenic analyser developed by Möttönen enables the measurement of extremely weak microwave radiation while minimising disturbance to the quantum system. The device is based on superconducting materials and uses an ultra-sensitive bolometer, which detects the small amount of heat contained in microwaves. A built-in self-calibration mechanism helps ensure measurement accuracy and enables the reliable detection of sources of electromagnetic interference.
“From 2027 onwards, we expect quantum computing to begin solving real industrial problems, first in limited use cases but then expanding, for example, to optimisation, whether routing ships or improving logistics,” says Möttönen.
From fundamental research to quantum diagnostics
The invention originated from long-term fundamental research into measurement technology at Aalto University, funded by the European Research Council and the Research Council of Finland. The original objective of the research was to develop ultra-sensitive bolometers for fundamental research.
The research team later discovered that the technology is also suitable for detecting radiation and noise that disturb quantum hardware. Since then, the invention has been used to read qubit states and to optimise the performance of quantum computing systems.
“In an emerging field like quantum computing, you must protect your inventions to maintain a competitive edge. Quantum computers are incredibly complex machines; by the time they are commercially available, they will be built on a foundation of a huge number of individual patents," says Möttönen.
The winners will be announced on 2 July 2026 in Berlin
The European Patent Office will announce the winners at an award ceremony in Berlin on Thursday 2 July 2026. You can follow the ceremony live online.Avautuu uuteen välilehteen
Möttönen is one of three finalists in the ‘Research’ category of the European Inventor Award 2026. The other finalists are vaccinologist Sir Adrian Hill for a malaria vaccine and Portuguese scientist Paula Alexandra Quintela Videira and her team for antibody technology that recognises cancer cells.
In addition to the inventors shortlisted in four categories, the public can vote for a candidate to receive the Popular Prize. Voting opened on 12 May 2026 and will run until the award ceremony.
Watch a video about the finalist.Avautuu uuteen välilehteen
Read more about the invention, technology and finalist on the EPO website.Avautuu uuteen välilehteen