ExpectedOutcome:
Proposals are expected to further mature alternative and promising quantum computation and simulation platforms which have the prospects of high scalability and programmability, to complement the ones already supported by the Quantum Technologies Flagship.
Scope:
In order to reach large-scale quantum computation and simulation in Europe, breakthroughs in scalability of quantum processors and simulators, devices and integrated platforms are needed, together with the ability to perform all necessary operations of the quantum systems to have a fully programmable quantum computer or simulator. Breakthroughs in scalability need to be achieved along with breakthroughs in fidelity.
The development of alternative quantum computer and simulator systems and platforms, based for example on photonic or nitrogen vacancy-centre platforms or hybrid systems, should be integrating the key building blocks such as individual quantum systems (i.e. >10 qubits for a quantum computer and >50 quantum units for a quantum simulator), control electronics, quantum software stack, use case applications, etc. Work should address the scalability towards large systems (>100 qubits for a quantum computer and >1000 quantum units for a quantum simulator), the verification and validation of the quantum computation or simulation, solving a concrete problem to demonstrate the quantum advantage. In addition, quantum computation platform should explore fault-tolerance.
Proposals should also cover:
- Cooperation with the complementary projects launched specifically in the area of the enabling quantum software stack (see HORIZON-CL4-2021- DIGITAL-EMERGING-02-10: Strengthening the quantum software ecosystem for quantum computing platforms), and future Digital Europe Programme EuroHPC JU calls for acquisition and operation of quantum computers, and their integration with the HPC and data infrastructure, including also the need to establish from the beginning of this cooperation appropriate IP exploitation agreements;
- Cooperation and coordination with the Flagship initiatives supporting the establishing of key European fabrication processes, technologies and supply chain for the proposed platform, including the FPA(s) funded under HORIZON-CL4-2021-DIGITAL-EMERGING-02-17 and HORIZON-CL4-2021-DIGITAL-EMERGING-02-15 and their respective SGA(s).
- Any additional support they may receive from relevant national, or regional programmes and initiatives; and
- Contribution to the governance and overall coordination of the Quantum Technologies Flagship initiative. They should also contribute to spreading excellence across Europe, for example, through the involvement of EU Widening Countries.
In this topic, the integration of the gender dimension (sex and gender analysis) in research and innovation content is not a mandatory requirement.
Specific Topic Conditions:
Activities are expected to start at TRL 3-4 and achieve TRL 5-6 by the end of the project – see General Annex B.
