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Quantum
SURF is exploring quantum networking technologies to understand how they can be applied. This is to ensure that Dutch researchers and teachers are well prepared to take full advantage of these emerging technologies.
Quantumcomputer

Quantumcomputers work in a very different way. With quantumcomputers, we do not work with zeros and ones, but with qubits.

Ariana Torres-Knoop, consultant quantum computing
Ariana Torres-Knoop

Ariana Torres

+31638167246
ariana.torres@surf.nl

Quantum computing

SURF's quantum computing initiative aims to give researchers early access to new quantum computing facilities. Together with partners and our user community, we are preparing for this groundbreaking technology.

The quantum revolution

While conventional computers use binary bits (1 and 0) for their calculations, a quantum computer uses quantum bits (aka: qubits). These work according to two main principles of quantum physics: superposition and entanglement. Superposition means that each qubit can simultaneously represent both a 1 and a 0, and many other states in between. Qubits exhibit properties of quantum entanglement - meaning that pairs or groups of particles are not measured or described independently of each other. Measuring a single qubit in an entangled group immediately determines the state of other particles in the group. This is true even if the particles are far apart.

Large-scale quantum computers could theoretically solve certain classes of problems much faster than a classical computer. Moreover, quantum computers can solve problems that are impossible on classical computers, thanks to their superposition properties. The potential future impact of quantum computing on computing is huge. The quantum revolution is moving very fast and the Netherlands is a leader in technology development. We are now entering the 'quantum ready phase', so we need to be prepared for the 'quantum advantage phase' (in 3-5 years' time), when quantum technology will become mainstream.

Why quantum computing at SURF?

We aim to support Dutch researchers to take early and competitive advantage of quantum computing developments and facilities as soon as it becomes available. Moreover, we want to:

  • Understand the applicability for scientific applications
  • Encourage and support the development of quantum applications
  • Gain insight into the expertise and tools needed to 'transform' regular applications into quantum applications
  • Support access to and use of quantum simulators and physical quantum computers (in the future).

Activities