Arlesheim, Switzerland, October 22, 2024 -- The University of Basel and QuantumBasel have agreed to collaborate to further develop the Center for Quantum Computing and Quantum Coherence (QC2) at the Department of Physics into a leading center of excellence for quantum computing and to strengthen the bridge between cutting-edge research and industrial applications in quantum computing. This partnership will enhance the cluster of quantum research in the Basel region and drive the development of quantum algorithms and their practical application. This will strengthen Switzerland's position in the international race for the leading role in technology.

With its research into the realization of spin qubits in silicon semiconductor structures and Majorana qubits in topological systems, the University of Basel has been pioneering scientific work in quantum hardware for years. The partnership with QuantumBasel will enable the university to expand its expertise in the development of quantum algorithms and practical applications of quantum computing, including the use of other quantum hardware modalities such as superconducting and ion qubits. This will strengthen the bridge between basic research and industrial application of this disruptive technology, accelerate the development of quantum talent and further advance the cluster for quantum research in the Basel region and Switzerland.

The two partners are working together to develop the QC2 into an international center of excellence that plays a leading role in both basic research and practical applications. The QC2 was founded in 2005 by researchers in theoretical and experimental physics under the direction of Prof. Daniel Loss and is closely linked to the National Center of Competence in Research NCCR SPIN, which is also based at the University of Basel.

“The regional ecosystem in quantum computing offers us a unique starting point in Switzerland for linking cutting-edge academic research with industrial applications,” says Prof. Primo Schär, Vice President for Research at the University of Basel. “We benefit from the partnership with QuantumBasel in the training of doctoral candidates, for example, but it also improves our position in the acquisition of third-party funding from national and international funding programs.”

Strategic Network on the uptownBasel Innovation Campus

QuantumBasel is part of the uptownBasel Group. A dynamic ecosystem is currently being created on the innovation campus in Arlesheim/BL near Basel, which will establish the region and Switzerland as a global hub for quantum computing. Selected technology companies, leading companies in the field of quantum computing and start-ups will find a perfect working environment here to combine research and industry. A long-term goal of the cooperation is to conduct some of QC2's research activities on the Innovation Campus. The aim is to advance research in direct proximity to leading companies in the field of quantum computing.

“By collaborating with the University of Basel, we are driving technological progress in both worlds and actively working towards a better and sustainable future. Excellent research is combined with our various innovation approaches, and together, we can position Switzerland even better in the global race for technological leadership,” explains Damir Bogdan, CEO of QuantumBasel.

The cooperation contributes to the targeted training of highly qualified talents and creates a structured environment to promote joint research and application projects in quantum computing. In close collaboration, projects are to be realized in order to advance basic research and ultimately create significant added value for customers. This partnership intensifies the exchange of knowledge and experts from research and industry and strengthens Switzerland's position as a global center of innovation.