Hackathons

UCLQ hosts hackathons throughout the year on various topics, from applications in finance to chemistry.

Quantum computers have the potential to revolutionise fields such as materials research, drug discovery and finance. Though the science and technology is developing, research groups and industry players are already exploring possible quantum algorithms for applications. Here is your chance to learn about the latest developments in quantum computing and code programs for quantum computers.

UCLQ Quantum Energy Hackathon (*past event)

With UCLQ's Quantum Energy Hackathon we explored how quantum computing can help with the climate crisis. We brought together people from a diverse set of backgrounds, including quantum physicists and engineers, computer scientists, energy and climate experts, and coders to explore the applications of quantum computing and how quantum computation can help optimise our energy infrastructure for a cleaner greener future.

Event Information

Saturday 26 - Sunday 27 February | Online

Our Qiskit hackathon was open to everyone and free to join. We sought students and professionals from all fields to attend and participate, though some prior knowledge in programming with Python was expected.

Over the course of two days students and professionals from all fields worked with quantum computers from IBM on a task devised by UCLQ. Teams of five (max.) formed multidisciplinary teams to hack, innovate and explore the problem for 24-hours, before presenting their results.

During the hackathon:

Expert coaches from IBM, UCLQ and UCL's Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources were available to help the teams and give them guidance
All teams had access to quantum machines from IBM
The participants joined other young scientists from around the world to attend talks that helped them understand and form solutions to the problem

Information Booklet

For more information about our hackathon - the agenda, competition rules, and pre-event instructions - read our Hackathon Information Booklet.

Registration for the event has closed

Two weeks before we start one of our hackathons registrants will be given the means and information to form teams and try out Qiskit coding activities that will prepare them for the Hackathon. They will also receive the joining instructions for our online Hackathon platform.