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Experts from UCL Maths and Physical Sciences, and Engineering, are working with Google to help exploit quantum’s revolutionary computational power.
Researchers from the UCL Quantum Science and Technology Institute have teamed up with Google’s Quantum AI Lab on their first major academic collaboration in quantum computing outside the US.
Quantum simulation will enable scientists to better understand and predict the behaviour of many complex materials and chemical reactions. In particular, materials and reactions that are extremely hard to model accurately using current supercomputers.
To simulate a quantum system with just 40 atoms using today’s computer technology would use more computing memory than is currently available on earth.
The partnership brings together leading universities and startups, who’ll develop the algorithms, verification tools and benchmarks required to realise the power of quantum simulation.
Once developed, quantum computers could solve problems that would take current computers thousands of years in a matter of minutes. With better quantum simulation, it is hoped researchers can design new materials for solar cells, fertilisers and more efficient batteries.
Other partners involved include the University of Bristol Quantum Information Institute and UK startup PhaseCraft.
Professor John Morton, from UCL’s Quantum Science and Technology Institute, said: "Quantum computers are poised to surpass the capabilities of today’s supercomputers. This partnership will develop the quantum software that’s needed to exploit this vast computational power, impacting sectors including energy, transport and healthcare."
The Prosperity Partnership in Quantum Software for Modelling and Simulation is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, together with the participating partners. The project is also supported by the Alan Turing Institute, the National Physical Laboratory, Flatiron Institute and Siemens Healthineers.
Read the full story on the UCL Quantum Science and Technology Institute’s website
