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Getting hands-on with quantum computing

Purpose

The course will provide an introduction for software developers to quantum technology and applications. The course offers participants insights into quantum technologies in general, with a strong focus on quantum computers, quantum software and algorithms.

Participants will gain an overview of the current state of quantum computers and where the field is heading towards practical applications with hands-on exercises. The syllabus will include linear algebra, Python, probability and quantum mechanics, all of which are necessary to understand the basis of quantum computers. This course will equip you with the necessary foundations to effectively engage with the self-study programme.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, participants will:

  • understand the fundamental principles behind quantum technology.
  • gain insight into quantum applications and technological trends.
  • work on practical use-cases with access to quantum simulators.

Target audience

This course is designed for software developers with a background in mathematics, physics or engineering who wish to get an introduction to quantum computers, quantum software and algorithms. It is not aimed at experts, but rather at curious professionals with an interest in technology and innovation.

Practical information

  • Location: Campus Kollegiet, Campusvej 1, 5230 Odense M
  • Date: From 26 May 2026 at 09:00 to 27 May 2026 at 14:00
  • Price: DKK 1300 – snacks, coffee, soft drinks, lunch and dinner are included

Programme – day 1

10:00 Welcome and introduction to the day

By Lars Rasmussen, head of fundraising

  • The session provides an overview of the day’s agenda and key learning outcomes.

10:15 Quantum technologies and State of the art quantum computing

By Jørgen Ellegaard Andersen, centre director and professor

  • This session will provide participants with a high-level introduction to quantum with a focus on qubits, superposition, and entanglement and a state-of-the-art introduction to quantum computing and use cases.

10:45 Basis of quantum computing

By Matthias Oliver Wilhelm, associate professor

  • Introduction to basic linear algebra and quantum mechanics to build the necessary understanding. Review of how qubits, superposition, and entanglement work in practice. Introduction to quantum gates and simple quantum programs to see the theory applied.

11:30 Break

11:45 Hands-on exercises 

  • This session provides a short, guided walkthrough of a prepared notebook, showing participants how to define and visualize simple quantum circuits.

12:15 Introduction to quantum algorithms

By Robin Kaarsgaard Sales, associate professor

  • Introduction to the basis of quantum algorithms, what they are good for, and applications. We will explore Shor’s algorithm, Grover’s algorithm, Quantum Fourier transform, Harrow–Hassidim–Lloyd (HHL) algorithm, Deutsch Jozsa algorithm.

13:00 Lunch break

13:45 Hands-on exercises 

  • This session provides a short, guided walkthrough of a prepared notebook, showing participants how to define and visualize simple quantum circuits.  

14:15 Break – walk and talk

15:00 Quantum algorithms (GBS)

By Jørgen Ellegaard Andersen, centre director and professor 

  • Introduction to the basis of quantum algorithms, what they are good for, and applications. 

15:45 Hands-on experience

  • This session provides a short, guided walkthrough of a prepared notebook, showing participants how to define and visualize simple quantum circuits.

16:15 Break 

16:30 Introduction to quantum computer capabilities

By Konstantin Wernli, associate professor

  • An introduction to the different quantum computer platforms and quantum computer vendors.

17:15 Wrap-up

18:30 Dinner

Programme – day 2

08:30 Quantum optimization

By Adrian Petr, postdoc

  • Introduction to quantum optimization problems, explaining why they are considered promising early use cases. It provides an overview of key algorithms, highlighting their hybrid structure and practical relevance. Real-world examples, including routing, scheduling, and portfolio optimization, are discussed to illustrate when quantum approaches may deliver value.

09:15 Hands-on exercises  

  • This session provides a short, guided walkthrough of a prepared notebook, showing participants how to define and visualize simple quantum circuits. 

09:45 Break

10:00 Quantum Machine Learning

By Giacomo Cappiello, research assistant

  • This session introduces quantum-enhanced machine learning and explains why hybrid models are gaining interest in both industry and academia. It covers the core elements of QML, including data encoding, variational quantum circuits, and hybrid optimization loops, providing participants with a foundation for practical applications.

10:45 Hands-on exercises 

  • This session provides a short, guided walkthrough of a prepared notebook, showing participants how to define and visualize simple quantum circuits.  

11:15 Lunch break 

12:15 Access to quantum computers and quantum services from DeiC

By Greyson Potter, postdoc

  • Basis introduction on how to access quantum computers and simulators 

12:45 Introduction to the Danish Quantum Ecosystem and EU Quantum Act

By Lars Rasmussen, head of fundraising

  • Overview of Denmark’s quantum ecosystem, including major companies, research institutions, and collaboration opportunities. The participants will get an introduction to EU Quantum Act and what business opportunities there are.  

13:15 Introduction to the self-study programme

By Lars Rasmussen, head of fundraising

  • Overview of recommended learning tracks and resources tailored for developers. 

13:30 Feedback to the programme

By Lars Rasmussen, head of fundraising 

14:00 Goodbye