Axel Berg (SURF), Anders Jensen (EuroHPC JU), Rafal Duczmal (EuroHPC JU), Daniel Opalka (EuroHPC JU), Ariana Torres (SURF) and Julia Feddersen (Quantum Delta NL)

SURF, EuroHPC JU and Quantum Delta NL

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SURF hosts European quantum computer

SURF will host a European quantum computer in the Netherlands. The quantum computer will be located at Amsterdam Science Park, right next to the national supercomputer Snellius with which it will be interfaced. This will allow students, researchers and businesses to make use of a unique hybrid combination between a quantum and a 'regular' supercomputer. SURF is thus laying a new foundation for the future digital infrastructure in the Netherlands.

The quantum computer is co-funded by the European EuroHPC programme. This will make the Netherlands part of the EuroHPC operational Quantum-HPC infrastructure.

"I am proud that we as SURF can bring this system to the Netherlands. Not only does this give our researchers and students access to this groundbreaking technology, but at the same time we strengthen the Dutch position in the field of quantum development."
Ron Augustus, Chair of SURF's Executive Board

Research on complex models

The Netherlands has a leading position in quantum developments. By hosting a quantum computer linked to a supercomputer, we can further develop our knowledge on both the operation and applications of this pioneering technique. In addition, in this way we encourage the adoption of quantum in various sectors. Quantum computers have the potential to perform specific tasks much faster than regular supercomputers. This could accelerate future research on complex models such as climate or proteins.

Semiconductor qubits

The quantum computer that will be located at SURF uses so-called semiconductor qubits. This technology has not been used on this scale before. A major advantage of semiconductor qubits is their compatibility with the existing and highly developed semiconductor industry. Thus, this technology can be scaled up more easily.

Broad consortium

SURF submitted the application to host the quantum computer to EuroHPC JU earlier this year, in coordination with Quantum Delta NL. The application was submitted on behalf of a broad consortium, including University of Antwerp (BE), GENCI (FR), Netherlands eScience Center (NL), Leiden University (NL), Delft University of Technology (NL), National Institute for Subatomic Physics Nikhef (NL) and SURF (NL).

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