Quantum science. From students for students

Quantum computers, quantum mechanics, quantum theory – topics such as these are often considered the ultimate challenge when studying at university. Unjustly so, according to Anietta Weckauff and Afonso Azenha. "For bachelor students, getting started in quantum science and quantum technologies is often challenging, but it doesn’t have to be this way," says Afonso Azenha, a doctoral researcher at the University of Stuttgart. “We want to make this field more accessible and explain what it’s really all about."

Currently, Qiskit Fall Fests are being held at universities around the world, all pursuing the same goal. They are organized by student initiatives and supported by the software company IBM. This year, Afonso Azenha, Anietta Weckauff, and their fellow students Leon Layer, Meri Ghulyan, and Victoria Freiin von Schlotheim brought the Qiskit Fall Fest to the University of Stuttgart for the first time.

Together, they want to show why students should start exploring quantum computing and related fields during their studies. "We are dealing with an exciting field of research, and there is a lot happening right now, both in large companies and here at the university," says Anietta Weckauff, who is studying computer science at the University of Stuttgart. "With the Qiskit Fall Fest, we want to introduce students to the world of quantum, inviting them to explore this exciting topic, and to network."

In talks and workshops with experts from research and industry, participants delved into exciting topics – from the fundamentals of quantum physics to the design and application of quantum algorithms, as well as quantum networks and career options in the field of quantum computing. David Faller, Managing Director of IBM Germany Research & Development, delivered akeynote speech, sharing insights into promising applications of quantum technology, the future industrial impact of quantum computing, and IBM’s role in the growing quantum ecosystem. The key takeaway: Conventional computers are increasingly reaching their limits when it comes to solving complex problems. Quantum technologies offer a promising approach to tackling these challenges, but clever minds are needed to further advance their development and application.

Participants tried their hand as developers and tackled two challenges in a hackathon. Using IBM’s Qiskit software kit, participants simulated nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra on quantum computers. The advanced prompt for this was provided by HQS Quantum Simulations.

Afonso Azenha and his teammate Leon Layer developed the prompt for the beginners. The task was to use Qiskit to simulate a quantum-mechanical interferometer setup in order to detect hidden scrolls in treasure chests without opening them. "It was amazing to see that the participants were enjoying themselves, identified the problems, and developed fantastic solutions," says Afonso Azenha.

The event concept from the Stuttgart students was selected from over 600 applications. This makes them one of two German teams to bring the Qiskit Fall Fest to Germany this year. "The great thing is that the kickoff of the Qiskit Fall Fest at our university coincides with the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology," says Anietta Weckauff. "This is a perfect start for the Qiskit Fall Fest,’ adds Afonso Azenha. “We hope that this will become a tradition in the coming years and that other students will continue to develop what we have started."

The students were supported by the School for Talents at the University of Stuttgart, as well as by partners from research and industry. Alongside IBM Quantum, the event was supported by IQST, Quantum BW, Fraunhofer IAO, BOSCH GmbH, HQS Quantum Simulations, the deep-tech startups Kipu Quantum and Moth Quantum, as well as the Institute of Computer Architecture and Computer Engineering, the 5th Institute of Physics, and the Institute for Theoretical Physics III.