Scientists from around the world have joined forces to highlight the critical role that quantum software will play as quantum computing enters a new era.
The new Quantum Software Alliance (QSA), led by the University of Edinburgh, will champion and co-ordinate the development of quantum software and algorithms, to support quantum computing’s shift from lab-based theory to real-world applications.
Strategic vision
The QSA brings together the knowledge and experience of researchers from four continents to provide practical recommendations to accelerate the discovery of new software and algorithms to enhance the performance of quantum computers.
The partnership will focus on the vital contributions quantum software will make in the drive towards practical quantum computing by transforming outputs from small and noisy machines to creating applications that deliver innovative outcomes for social and economic development.
Collaborative approach
The Alliance will create an agenda of key research priorities to provide a coherent development framework for the research community. This aims to help enable closer collaboration with other stakeholders and inform policy and funding decisions.
It will also explore outstanding questions confronting researchers developing software algorithms and protocols for many complex quantum processors.
Crucially, the QSA aims to work with policymakers and funding agencies  to establish quantum research programmes that place a more strategic focus on the development of quantum algorithms and software.
Quantum processing
Quantum computing combines computer science with quantum physics and is used to solve complex problems that are beyond the reach of traditional computers.
It has the potential to transform the digital world as we know it and holds the key to the technological future of many businesses, industries and research worldwide, experts say.
Quantum information processing focuses on finding algorithms and protocols that can solve problems more efficiently by storing and manipulating huge quantities of information within quantum computers.
Edinburgh expertise
The University of Edinburgh is a leading UK hub for quantum computing expertise, focusing on software development, algorithm design and industrial applications.
The University’s School of Informatics has a dedicated research programme which delivers quantum-based solutions in line with emerging quantum hardware.
“Even the most powerful quantum computer will need software and algorithms to create useful applications that deliver genuine benefits for industry and society."
“We now need a dedicated focus on developing quantum algorithms and protocols that can derive the most value from scalable hardware platforms, otherwise there is a real risk that a fault-tolerant machine will not be able to achieve the computational advantage that has been promised for quantum computing."
— Professor Elham KashefiChief Scientist at the UK's National Quantum Computing Centre and a convener of the QSA.
“Our role at the QSA is to ensure that quantum software researchers receive the attention and support they need to accelerate the innovation pathway towards practical quantum computing."
“Their unique talents and insights will be essential to unlock the applications that make the best use of different qubit platforms, and to create full-stack systems that realize the full potential of quantum computing."
— Professor Chris HeunenChair of the QSA steering committee and Chair of Quantum programming at the University of Edinburgh.
The launch of the QSA was announced during the closing ceremony of an event marking the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology in Ghana, West Africa.
“The QSA brings together stakeholders from different continents to develop a Global Research Agenda in Quantum Software."
“This is a first in Quantum Science and Technology, leveraging the expertise available around the world to create a common vision and way forward, in this case to find the most impactful ways to exploit the potential of quantum computation."
“Furthermore, the launch of the QSA today shows how the closing of the International Year of Quantum is also the beginning of a global quantum initiative, setting the ground for others to follow, and for the establishment of an international Quantum Decade."
— Professor Yasser OmarYasser Omar, Professor at IST, University of Lisbon and member of the QSA Steering Committee.