Palacký University has joined the prestigious IBM Quantum Innovation Centre project. Thanks to its collaboration with the Czech Technical University in Prague (CTU), the Olomouc university has become part of the global IBM Quantum Network, which provides access to state-of-the-art quantum computers and technologies via its cloud platform. Palacký University is one of seven Czech universities that, together with the Czech Academy of Sciences, have gained access to IBM’s quantum infrastructure through this project.
Quantum computers developed by IBM enable complex calculations using the principles of quantum physics. IBM also offers Quantum Safe technology, which addresses new challenges in cybersecurity. IBM is today the only provider of such comprehensive quantum services in the world.
“Our involvement in the project builds on many years of research in the field of quantum optics, quantum information processing, and quantum technologies. However, access to quantum infrastructure is not only intended for physicists – it can also be used by IT specialists, chemists, mathematicians, and materials experts,” said Jaromír Fiurášek, head of the Department of Optics at the UP Faculty of Science.
The access agreements to the Quantum Innovation Centre were signed on 11 June at the headquarters of the Czech Institute of Informatics, Robotics and Cybernetics at CTU. The lead partner is CTU, while the University of Defence, the military institution of higher education of the Czech Armed Forces, also plays an important role, as it has provided financial support for the project. The Quantum Innovation Centre is also supposed to strengthen the Czech Republic’s technological and security readiness for the advent of quantum computing systems.
Matěj Dostálek, Vice-Rector for Communication and Social Responsibility, attended the ceremony on behalf of Palacký University. “We have a unique opportunity to participate in the exclusive development of the technologies of the future and discover their potential. At the same time, we can contribute to society by preparing our students as well as the greater public for this future through the popularisation of topics related to quantum technology,” Dostálek added.