The MQV Supplier Workshop, which took place for the second time on 28 May, is primarily aimed at the MQV partner network and creates a platform for exchange between industry representatives and scientists in the MQV ecosystem. As last year, young scientists were particularly invited to attend the event and take advantage of the networking opportunities.
The focus was first on the scientific perspective. Jens Eisert opened the program with his keynote speech, in which he repeatedly emphasized what an exciting field of research quantum technologies are today. “It is becoming increasingly common to race classical computers against quantum computers,” he said, expressing his enthusiasm about the state of development. He also spoke about noise, “the main enemy of quantum computing,” and his work as a theoretical physicist in the field of error correction. He additionally offered advice to young scientists considering a career in quantum computing: think outside the box, explore industry-relevant applications, and dare to challenge the big players in the field. Researchers from the MQV then gave short presentations on the current work being done in the consortia, successes and challenges in the development of hardware and software for quantum computers. Specifically, they discussed technologies with neutral atom qubits and superconducting qubits, as well as the development of a general quantum software stack, taking the opportunity to formulate their needs and wishes for industry.
The second half of the program turned its attention to industry representatives. It began with a keynote address by Mattia Giardini on the European Quantum Industry Consortium (QuIC). Following the QuIC perspective, suppliers who have joined the partner network since last year presented themselves in short pitch talks. CAEN ELS, Quandela, and Peak Quantum presented their areas of expertise and products, highlighting potential collaboration opportunities with researchers in the MQV network. A concluding poster session, in which all other members of the partner network could participate, provided an opportunity for further discussion and more intensive exchange.