Delft-based QuTech and the Danish Niels Bohr Institute have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Tuesday 17 March, in the presence of the King and Queen of the Netherlands and the Danish prime minister. Both institutes are internationally renowned for their work in the field of quantum technology. They are looking to work together more closely and to establish broad-based, international cooperation for the development of the first quantum computer. They aim to create a prominent role for Europe in its development.

The Niels Bohr Institute was founded in the early 20th century by the famous Danish scientist Niels Bohr – one of the founding fathers of quantum mechanics. ‘The institute’s Center for Quantum Devices is one of the most highly renowned research groups in the field of quantum bits worldwide. At TU Delft, we work very closely with them on a regular basis,’ explains QuTech’s Professor Leo Kouwenhoven. ‘Together we aim to play a key role in an international network devoted to developing the first quantum computer. We’re already working with major companies such as Microsoft, but we want to expand this network far wider. The next few years are crucial to determining where in the world the development of the first quantum computers will be centred. Together, we’ll be ensuring that Europe will continue to play a prominent role in the years ahead.’