Often perceived as a primarily fundamental discipline, quantum physics has, in fact, already paved the way for revolutionary technologies : nuclear energy, magnetic resonance imaging, diodes, transistors, integrated circuits, electron microscopes, lasers, and more. An impressive track record for this field of research, where a deeper understanding of its fundamentals promises a second wave of disruptive technology.
In fact, super-powerful quantum computers could perform multiple tasks simultaneously, whereas our classical computers perform them one at a time, sequentially. This phenomenal computing power is already being put to the test in several laboratories around the world, with the University of Strasbourg at the forefront.
Recognizing the strategic importance of this field of research in computer science and chemistry, the University has just opened a brand-new research institute dedicated to : the European Center for Quantum Sciences (CESQ).
This high-level institute, which plans to eventually host 80 researchers, aims to be a forum for dialogue between academic and industrial researchers. This highly stimulating environment will also foster the creation of startups, functioning as a true innovation accelerator.
Dr. Shannon Whitlock (director of the Exotic Quantum Matter Laboratory) and Professor Guido Pupillo (director of the Theoretical Quantum Physics Laboratory and new director of CESQ) are coordinating the creation of a platform featuring the very latest quantum technologies : “We wanted to establish a one-of-a-kind facility in France that will leverage the latest scientific and technological advances to make quantum computing more accessible to both academics and industry, both nationally and internationally.” 1.
This platform, called aQCess (“Atomic quantum computing as a service –
aQCess”), will make it possible to perform calculations that are currently impossible to
solve even on the largest supercomputers. “As a true
public facility dedicated to quantum computing, aQCess will be a
widely used tool for research, teaching
across disciplines, and training, as well as by companies and
start-ups investing in quantum technologies,” explain the
two researchers, who are enthusiastic about making one of
Europe’s first quantum computers accessible.
Researchers in Strasbourg sought to involve industry representatives in major events and conferences where the field’s leading experts gather to discuss the latest advances and future challenges in the discipline. Beginning in 2021, the “Machine Learning for Quantum X” conference was co-organized by the company Qunasys and the University of Strasbourg. This event was dedicated to recent revolutions in computing : machine learning and quantum computing. By bringing together researchers, students, and industry representatives for a week, the goal was to share ideas and experiences on solving various problems spanning physics, chemistry, applied mathematics, and computer science. Among the high-level scientific presentations, six were delivered by industry professionals.
In October 2022, the University of Strasbourg organized the event “Quantum Computing for Chemistry,” an industry-focused training program spanning 5 days focused on quantum computing and its applications in chemistry for students and industry professionals (10 companies, including BASF and the startup Qunasys, participated). The program covered the fundamentals and practical applications of the discipline through lectures and workshops. As this first edition was a resounding success, a new training program will take place in October 2023.
Given the rapid development of the latest innovations in this field, industries are facing an urgent need for highly qualified personnel in quantum technology. In April 2022, the European Spring School on Quantum Sciences and Technologies took place, bringing together outstanding students, researchers, and experts from across Europe. Over the course of a week, the specific needs inherent to quantum science applications were discussed with participating companies, which had the opportunity to meet with students. This event provided a unique opportunity for industry representatives to outline their expectations and identify promising talent. A second edition will take place in September 2023 near Karlsruhe.
Through these initiatives, the University of Strasbourg is once again demonstrating its commitment to incorporating the needs of businesses into its research strategy—a necessary step to make the most of all the promising applications of quantum science in the near future.
The Jean-Marie Lehn Foundation is a partner of the European Center for Quantum Sciences.
1. Interview with Shannon Whitlock and Guido Pupillo, University of Strasbourg. https://recherche.unistra.fr/actualites-recherche/actualites-de-la-recherche/aqcess-une-piece-maitresse-dun-ecosysteme-quantique-transnational
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