Quantum computers utilise the laws of quantum mechanics, promising computing power beyond that of any conventional computer. However, “quantum computing” is not just about increasing computing power: The radically different functional principles of these devices allow certain problems to be tackled that it has not been possible to address before. The aim is to use them e.g. in materials research, the development of active agents or artificial intelligence and thereby help solve problems, which cannot be tackled using conventional computers.
Important aspects include quantum networks (data networks which utilise the laws of quantum mechanics) and quantum communication, which allow significantly quicker and above all inherently secure communication.
The ML4Q Cluster of Excellence addresses fundamental physical and technological challenges along the road to scalable and reliable quantum computing – from the development of high-performance qubits to modular architectures and the interface between quantum hardware and software. Led by the University of Cologne (spokesperson: Professor Dr Alex Altland), the cluster also comprises Aachen University of Technology (RWTH), the University of Bonn and Forschungszentrum Jülich. HHU and Ruhr University Bochum are partner institutions.
Two sub-projects will be realised in Düsseldorf. Under the title “Resources for quantum algorithms”, the working group of Professor Dagmar Bruß at the Institute for Theoretical Physics III will conduct research into which role quantum-physical characteristics such as coherence, purity, entanglement and the so-called “quantum magic” (a quantitative measure for the non-classicality of a state) play in order to gain a quantum advantage. The insights obtained will influence the concrete development of quantum hardware and may lead to hardware-specific quantum algorithms.
Professor Reinhold Egger (Institute for Theoretical Physics IV) will investigate “New platforms for Majorana qubits”. Such qubits are based on so-called Majorana states, in which quantum information is robustly encoded in spatially separated locations. In concrete terms, the aim is to investigate how composite structures of topological insulators and conventional superconductors can be used as components for novel quantum computers. Majorana states are realised in so-called chiral edge channels, in which particles can only travel in one direction. This effectively protects the Majorana states against disorder effects.
The second seven-year funding period for ML4Q begins in 2026. More information on the ML4Q Cluster of Excellence.