Quantum technology
New European quantum research center will be anchored at SDU
Center for Quantum Mathematics at The University of Southern Denmark has been appointed to lead the scientific work of the newly established European research initiative, the Quantum Excellence Center (QEX), a new European research collaboration to develop future quantum algorithms and software.
The centre is being established with support from the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking, a European public-private partnership on high performance computing initiated by the European Commission.
The centre has a total budget of €10 million.
The new research centre QEX brings together some of Europe's leading universities and researchers in quantum technology.
SDU will be the scientific lead acting on behalf of DeiC (Danish e-Infrastructure Consortium) and will work closely with Aalborg University, Aarhus University, Copenhagen Business School, Technical University of Denmark and University of Copenhagen on the project.
QEX will conduct research in algorithms for quantum simulation, optimization, and machine learning, as well as develop software tools that can harness quantum computers in synergy with classical supercomputers.
SDU becomes a European powerhouse
QEX gives SDU a central role in developing practical applications and use cases to bring quantum technology closer to industry and society.
- With QEX, SDU is becoming a European powerhouse for the development of quantum software and algorithms. We are therefore very pleased with the support for establishing an ambitious European research collaboration, which makes it possible to develop quantum algorithms and software with international impact and visibility, says Jens Ringsmose, Rector at SDU.
SDU is responsible for the “Use Cases and Applications” work program, which covers almost half of QEX's total research effort.
Research with a global perspective
The centre brings together experts in quantum mathematics, quantum information, quantum chemistry and quantum life science to develop software that can exploit the potential of future quantum computers.
- There is enormous potential for quantum computers to revolutionize many areas of science, industry, and society. We have a truly unique opportunity to bridge the gap between fundamental and applied research, giving European society and industry the chance to become front-runners in quantum technology, says Jørgen Ellegaard Andersen, Professor and Head of Centre at the Centre for Quantum Mathematics.
The Danish participation is based on the government’s ambitious national strategy for quantum technology, funded with DKK 1.2 billion for the period 2023–2027.
The strategy aims to ensure that Denmark continues to have one of the world’s leading quantum research environments and can effectively translate research into new, practical technology.