Agreement in quantum computing between University of Pisa and FermiLabERT

The University of Pisa accelerates in the race for the quantum computer of the future by signing a cooperation agreement with FermiLab Chicago, seat of the Superconducting Quantum Materials & Systems Center (SQMS Center), one of the five centers of the US government’s National Quantum Initiative (NQI) set up to explore and promote quantum information science.

The objectives of this agreement are to advance quantum technologies as new and unique tools for the study of elementary particle physics and dark matter; to develop and provide new quantum platforms and bench tests for new approaches to quantum computation and metrology; to enhance technological strengths of researchers at Fermilab and the University of Pisa; to have an impact on technology transfer and commercialisation, by exploring the potential of quantum science and technology for practical applications.

“This agreement marks a very important step in the University’s scientific development, also for the prestigious history of Pisa University’s computer science, as well as representing a great opportunity for our researchers and students – commented the Rector of the University of Pisa, Riccardo Zucchi -. The collaboration we are launching today stems from our common interest in several research areas, from superconducting materials to microwaves, passing through gravitational waves and dark matter to super-fridges for cooling qubits, the development of new algorithms and Artificial Intelligence techniques with applications also in chemistry and biology. A collaboration that will involve several Departments, including Engineering, Physics, Pharmacy, Mathematics, Chemistry and Computer Science, made possible by a project initiated in recent years by Professor Paolo Ferragina, whom I would like to thank personally”.

“The partnership with the SQMS Center directed by Anna Grassellino (pictures above), who carried out her university studies in electronic engineering at our university, will enable us to make a further qualitative leap forward in research into quantum technologies, on which both the European Commission (through one of the ‘flagship’ programmes) and Italy as described in the National Research Plan 21-27 and with PNRR funds, are making huge investments – commented Alessandro Tredicucci, Pro-rector for the organisation of research -. In particular, we hope that the multi-disciplinary competences put in place by the University will enable us to extend the impact of these technologies to new areas and sectors of research”.

In addition to joint research and development activities, the agreement with FermiLab also includes activities of interest for the Pisan academic community, such as the possibility of internships for university students, master’s students, doctoral students and post-doctoral researchers. It will also be possible to take part in exchange programmes, hold workshops and host researchers visiting the university. As well as the possibility of activating scholarships for students and post-doctoral researchers at the SQMS Center.