For the first time, DeiC is allocating computing time on quantum computers. This marks a milestone in establishing a robust quantum infrastructure ecosystem to benefit research, innovation, businesses, and public administration. DeiC has launched the DeiC Q-Access project, which will grant access to both quantum computing hardware and simulators of quantum computing hardware twice a year.
DeiC handles procurement and distribution
The Q-Access working group, led by Dean at University of Southern Denmark (SDU), Marianne Holmer, continuously surveys the market to assess available quantum computing facilities, their performance, and user demand. Through DeiC Q-Access, DeiC manages the procurement and distribution of access to both quantum computing hardware and quantum hardware simulation via High Performance Computing (HPC) facilities. The preliminary result of this work includes access to cloud-based quantum computing facilities, which require a quick and relatively simple application, as well as access to highly specialised quantum computing setups that necessitate specific use cases to qualify for allocation.
"Building a quantum infrastructure that benefits all of Denmark takes time. We are therefore very pleased to now contribute to implementing the government's quantum strategy for quantum technology with this initiative – which also reflects the excellent collaboration among Danish universities," says Henrik Navntoft Sønderskov, Head of Quantum Infrastructure at DeiC.
Access to specialised, high-level quantum computing hardware
Applicants can express their preferences for specific, specialised quantum computing facilities suited to their project needs, and DeiC Q-Access will source and allocate access based on these requests. Thus, user needs determine DeiC’s procurement decisions. Currently, DeiC is considering computing facilities from IBM, Atom Computing, IonQ, Pasqal, Quantinuum, AWS, and Azure based on the Q-Access working group's preliminary assessments.
Access to cloud-based quantum computing solutions through the European OCRE framework
A quicker and simpler option for accessing quantum computing resources is through cloud-based services, which DeiC provides access to under the European OCRE framework. Applying is easy; simply use the following link to the online form on DeiC’s website:
Assistance for applicants
To ensure users maximise the potential of quantum computing, DeiC has hired two quantum specialists to provide expert counselling and technical assistance. They will help applicants choose the most suitable type of quantum computer for their needs and ensure a smooth application experience. Through close collaboration with experts, Danish researchers and other stakeholders will be able to implement quantum computing to address complex problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers.
"For Denmark to remain at the forefront of development, it is crucial to have access to resources that will be the key to future research and innovation. Broad access to the right quantum computing facilities will be essential," states Marianne Holmer.
As part of implementing the Danish National Strategy on Quantum Technology, DeiC has been allocated DKK 50 million from the research reserve in 2023 and DKK 40 million in 2024. These funds are intended to support the strategy’s third focus area, “Improved Access to Digital Research Infrastructure,” with three main initiatives: competence development (Q-Competence), algorithm and software development (Q-Algorithm), and access to testing on quantum computers (Q-Access).
Funding applications can be submitted here
Further information
Head of Quantum Infrastructure, DeiC, Henrik Navntoft Sønderskov, email: henrik.sonderskov@deic.dk, tel.: +45 31 96 49 31
Dean Marianne Holmer, University of Southern Denmark (SDU), email: holmer@sdu.dk, tel.: +45 65 50 26 05