Quantum simulation and numerical techniques

On the one hand, simulation, performance comparison (benchmarking), and monitoring of multi-qubit systems will be indispensable if quantum systems of the future, which will require high numbers of qubits, are to be developed. On the other, hybrid simulations, which combine classical and quantum-based approaches and offer optimized numerical techniques in physics, chemistry, biology, and other research fields, will show that quantum computers can complement classical ones. This will open up completely new scientific approaches to solving problems that cannot be solved using current methods.

In quantum technology, the Helmholtz Association is working on improving simulation as a third column (complementing theory and experimentation). The short-term goal is to develop algorithms, methods, and tools for pioneering calculation capabilities that will help solve previously insoluble calculations in science and industry. In the long term, joint efforts by all Helmholtz Centers will develop a broadly deployable software package that will help a large community of researchers from a variety of disciplines to efficiently perform quantum calculations.