• Norwegian Quantum Software Centre (NorQSoft) – led by Shaukat Ali, hosted at Simula Research Laboratory
• Centre for Quantum Communication Networks and Applications (QCNA) — led by Carlos Cid, hosted at Simula UiB

Both centres are funded by the Research Council of Norway and represent an important step in strengthening Norway's position within quantum technology research.

On May 4th, the centre directors will present their respective centres to partners and stakeholders.

Speakers

The event will be opened by Sigrun Aasland, the Minister of Research and Higher Education.

Alongside presentations from the two new centre leaders, we are pleased to welcome two keynote speakers:

Professor Chris Heunen (University of Edinburgh) will present work from the university's Quantum Software Lab — a central component of the UK's quantum initiative. He will also speak about the newly launched Quantum Software Alliance, a global initiative that Simula, through NorQSoft, is in the process of joining.

Professor Erika Andersson (Heriot-Watt University) will speak in connection with QCNA's focus on quantum-secure communications. She plays a leading role in the Integrated Quantum Networks Hub, one of the cornerstones of the UK's quantum research effort, with the aim of "bringing together world-leading UK academic research and industry to research the quantum networks of the future".

Programme

12:00 – Registration and light lunch

13:00 – Information by event chair, Professor Are Magnus Bruaset, Division Director, Simula Research Laboratory

13:05 – Welcome, Dr. Lillian Røstad, CEO, Simula Research Laboratory

13:10 – Opening of the two quantum research centres, Sigrun Aasland, Minister of Research and Higher Education

13:20 – Centre for Quantum Communication Networks and Applications, Professor Carlos Cid, Centre Director

13:40 – The Norwegian Quantum Software Center, Chief Research Scientist Shaukat Ali, Centre Director

14:00 – Short break

14:15 – Keynote on quantum communication, Professor Erika Andersson, Heriot-Watt University

15:45 – Keynote on quantum software, Professor Chris Heunen, University of Edinburgh

15:15 – Simula's quantum centres in the Nordic quantum landscape, Professor Are Magnus Bruaset, Simula Research Laboratory

15:30 – Reception and mingling

The event will bring together representatives from academia, industry, and the public sector.

For questions, contact Are Magnus Bruaset at arem@simula.no.