The focus of the new potential area "Photonic Quantum Computing PhoQC" at Paderborn University is the implementation of important applications of quantum computing based on photonic quantum systems. In the future, a nationally and internationally visible and leading research center in the field of photonic quantum computing will be created. Scientists from the faculties of natural sciences, electrical engineering, computer science and mathematics are involved in the initiative, mainly from the department of physics, the institute of computer science and electrical engineering and from the two areas of applied and pure mathematics.

The ambitious goal of this project can only be successfully pursued in a long-term and innovative interdisciplinary approach that combines the relevant disciplines in all research and development phases. The implementation of a viable concept for the promotion of young scientists is also of particular importance to anchor quantum technologies in society in the long term and to train excellent specialists for the economy of the future. The targeted merger of complementary core competencies opens the future-oriented research field of photonic quantum computing and creates new synergies far beyond the capacities of the individual fields.

Of particular importance in the German research landscape is the establishment of new structures that transfer the topic from basic research in physics to research activities in engineering. The potential area of ​​photonic quantum computing bundles expertise from Paderborn University in the profile areas "Intelligent Technical Systems" and "Optoelectronics and Photonics". The additional structures created within this project will help to further strengthen both profile areas professionally and to further advance the promotion of young people and equality in this research field, in which women have been far underrepresented to date. This project goes well beyond the existing profile areas by opening the new, visionary field of photonic quantum computing and bringing together areas from natural and engineering sciences as well as computer science and mathematics. With the Research Center Photonic Quantum Computing, the research landscape in the field of quantum technologies and quantum computing is significantly expanded and strengthened in NRW and important structures for the interdisciplinary training of university graduates who have tailor-made expertise for the future field of quantum technologies.

The project is funded by the Ministry of Culture and Science of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia for the period from 01.11.2021 to 31.10.2024.