Quantum Excellence Centre for Quantum-Enhanced Applications

At a Glance

Fosters the integration of quantum computing into existing high-performance computing infrastructure
Provides federated access to HPC-QC infrastructure and a hardware agnostic application library
Strengthens European capacity building through a comprehensive training programme and a helpdesk for individual questions

The newly established Quantum Excellence Centre, QEC4QEA, will bring quantum computing one step closer to real-world applications. At the core of the project is the development of a web-based platform that will act as a one-stop shop for quantum-enhanced applications, providing access to infrastructure and expert support. The platform will address both the scientific community and industrial partners, aiming to develop industry-compatible standards for quantum applications.

All applications offered through the one-stop shop follow the principle of hardware independence, ensuring flexibility and interoperability across different systems. 19 renowned scientific institutions, supercomputing centres, and companies from eight countries are collaborating in QEC4QEA to establish a cross-European infrastructure that enables the current and future development of quantum technologies.

Harnessing the Quantum Advantage Beyond the Lab

While it is widely recognised that quantum technologies will transform our near future, their full potential has not yet been unlocked. New encryption technologies, the optimisation of logistics processes, and advances in drug discovery are just a few of the many areas that could benefit from this technological progress. However, in quantum computing, the lack of standardised infrastructure, limited access to hardware and software, insufficient training opportunities, and weak ties between academia and industry continue to hinder the realisation of the full potential of quantum computing.

These are precisely the gaps that QEC4QEA aims to address. By harnessing quantum advantage through concrete use cases developed in co-design with developers, the project fosters the deployment of quantum technologies in real-world applications. At the same time, it contributes to building a collaborative community by training and connecting the next generation of quantum researchers and developers.

A Hub for Quantum Excellence

Creating a comprehensive one-stop shop for quantum-enhanced applications that connects end users with scientists, developers, experts, and infrastructure providers is the overarching goal of QEC4QEA. The envisioned web-based platform offers a comprehensive service portfolio, including a hardware-independent application library, benchmarking and validation tools, and federated access to European quantum and high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructures.

In addition, QEC4QEA provides tailored training programmes, expert support, and a dedicated help desk, equipping both beginners and experts with the necessary tools to apply and adapt quantum technologies to their needs. By offering a range of formats, from introductory sessions and specialised workshops to hackathons, the project advances European capacity building in quantum computing on multiple fronts.

Making quantum computing accessible, understandable, and applicable lies at the core of the Quantum Excellence Centre. By providing the necessary infrastructure in combination with co-design opportunities and tailored support, QEC4QEA strengthens the European quantum ecosystem and brings Europe closer to fully exploiting the quantum advantage.

Bringing quantum computing one step closer to real-world applications, with the QEC4QEA Quantum Excellence Centre.

qec4qea.eu

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Corinna Hahn

Senior Research & Impact Manager
Portfolio Manager Quantum & Digital Infrastructures