Debated quantum technology can already be studied in Finland
While the field of quantum computing is a highly scientific and complex space, you can study the fundamentals and programming of quantum computers through a hands-on learning experience in Finland. As the technology becomes more common, it is said to change the world. Thus CSC and Aalto University are very interested in the opportunities quantum technologies may provide. For instance, the only commercially available quantum computer by D-Wave utilizes the refrigerator technology developed at Aalto University.
The first quantum computing workshop in Finland let's students practice programming a D-Wave 2X quantum computer. Photo: D-Wave Systems
On October 12th and 13th, CSC will host a workshop to address the fundamentals and programming of the D-Wave 2X quantum computer. The two day course is delivered by D-Wave Systems, currently the only company in the world selling quantum computers.
– CSC follows emerging technologies in scientific computing with great interest. Quantum computing has matured to such a level that some of our customers want to get their hands on the technology. To our knowledge this course will be among the first of its kind in Europe and hopefully will open a lot of opportunities for both CSC and Finnish researchers to do joint research and collaborative activities, says Dr Pekka Lehtovuori, Director of Services for Research at CSC.
Future technology now
Quantum computers can, in principle, solve certain types of problems much faster than conventional computers, such as questions related to real-life optimization problems or in molecular biology, when trying to solve protein's folded structure. Finding a fastest or shortest route from a number of possible routes is often given as an example of a problem suitable for a quantum computer.
While a conventional computer performs calculations based on classical bits, quantum computers use quantum mechanical bits (qubits). The computer is very sensitive to disturbances such as vibration and heat.
Regardless of its limitations, the technology creates completely new possibilities for complex problem solving.
– The D-Wave 2X quantum computer is a piece of 2020's technology that ended up in the current decade. Quantum computers offer a promise of an all new approach for solving scientific modelling problems intractable even for the fastest supercomputers of today. We at CSC are very interested in the progress of this field and, via this workshop, would like to expose our customers to quantum computing and its state of the art technology, says Dr Pekka Manninen, senior high-performance computing specialist at CSC.
Finland is a strong player in the development of quantum computers
CSC is organizing the workshop in collaboration with the Centre for Quantum Engineering at Aalto University. The recently established center unites the research efforts at Aalto University in the area of quantum engineering. Aalto University is the leading institution in Finland in quantum technologies and a high-profile player worldwide. Finland is especially known for its achievements in low temperature devices and circuits development.
– D-Wave's quantum computer makes use of refrigerator technology developed at Aalto University which clearly shows that Finland holds a strong position in this field. This is an exciting opportunity to learn more about quantum computing through actual hands-on exercises with a D-Wave quantum computer. Such an event may bring together researchers from all over Finland with a common interest in quantum physics and quantum information processing, says Prof. Christian Flindt, Director of Centre for Quantum Engineering at Aalto University.
A combination of lectures and hands-on practical labs will guide the students through the quantum phenomena harnessed in quantum computers and allow them to implement certain quantum algorithms. The workshop will also feature a Birds-of-a-Feather (BoF) session on quantum computing research and future expectations in Finland and abroad.
The course is targeted to everyone interested in quantum computers, their current state and future prospects. The course is taught by D-Wave senior scientist, Dr. Edward Dahl and the company's lead data scientist, Sheir Yarkoni.
– Advancing the creation and use of quantum algorithms to solve the hardest problems will take the efforts of experts in a diversity of fields. The first step is to provide the education and hands-on experience needed to make the technology better understood and accessible. We are very pleased to be delivering this workshop to CSC and Finnish researchers, and look forward to seeing strong results thereafter, says Bo Ewald, President D-Wave International.
Further information:
Pekka Manninen
Senior application specialist
CSC – IT Center for Science Ltd.
pekka.manninen@csc.fi
+358 503 812 831
Minna Günes
Coordinator
Center for Quantum Engineering
Aalto University
minna.gunes@aalto.fi
+358 503 018 442
More information about the course: https://www.csc.fi/web/training/-/d-wave-2016
Centre for Quantum Engineering: http://cqe.aalto.fi/en/