The Ethereum Foundation (EF) has escalated its efforts to counter the looming threat of quantum computing, establishing a dedicated Post-Quantum (PQ) team and initiating a comprehensive strategy to future-proof the network. Researcher Justin Drake announced the formation of the team, led by Thomas Coratger and including Emile, a key developer behind the leanVM cryptographic engine, which is central to the foundation's post-quantum plans.
The move follows years of quiet research and development, but was accelerated by recent advancements. Drake cited "timelines are accelerating," pointing to Google's October 2025 research that brings quantum computing closer to real-world applications. The urgency was further underscored by Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin's November warning that quantum computers could break blockchain encryption before the 2028 U.S. presidential election.
The EF's strategy is multi-faceted. It includes new bi-weekly core developer calls focused on quantum security, debating topics like post-quantum transactions and quantum-safe accounts. A soon-to-be-released website will detail a plan targeting "a full transition in coming years with zero loss of funds and zero downtime." To spur innovation, the foundation is offering a $1 million prize to harden quantum-resistant cryptography.
The initiative extends beyond the EF. Karl Floersch, co-founder of OP Labs (behind the Optimism layer-2 blockchain), stated that his company plans to swap out quantum-vulnerable technology within the next decade, aligning its final choices with Ethereum's core developments. The engineering focus is on a phased, user-centric transition that allows new post-quantum signatures to coexist with existing accounts to prevent wallet or smart contract breakage.
Drake also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in this cryptographic race, noting a recent instance where an AI solved a complex cryptographic lemma in eight hours, signaling that "applied cryptography will never be the same." The overarching goal is to preempt a "harvest now, decrypt later" attack scenario, securing user funds, identities, and financial history against future quantum threats.
