NWO funding for two quantum projects within the Dutch Research Agenda.
Can humans perceive single photons? How can we make quantum computers more stable? Wolfgang Löffler (LION) and Evert van Nieuwenburg (LION) from Leiden University have received funding for their research projects within the Dutch Research Agenda (NWA).
In total, sixty consortia will begin work on innovative research projects aimed at increasing both the scientific and societal impact of NWA routes. These projects involve close collaboration between various academic disciplines, societal organisations, and research institutions.
The following quantum projects led by Leiden University researchers have been awarded funding:
Human quantum vision
Wolfgang Löffler (LION)
It is not known if humans can consciously see a single photon, the quantum of light – next to fundamental interest, knowledge of this would expand our understanding of visual signal processing in the brain with the smallest possible excitations. We propose to use a novel quantum optical technique, quantum detector tomography, to answer this question, and explore neuroscientific connections. We also develop a citizen science experiment about this question, which will enable much more experiments and deeper insight into the question.
Human-AI collaboration for Quantum Technologies
Evert van Nieuwenburg (LION)
Quantum computers promise to bring many improvements to our society. With their capability of performing specific complex calculations faster than regular computers, they open up new ways to find, for example, medicines and materials. However, that requires them to be stable and error-free, which is a major challenge for quantum systems. Artificial intelligence can help with quantum error correction, but struggles without a starting point from which to start training. In this project, we use human intelligence to find and optimize that starting point for the artificially intelligent agent.
Source: Grant 08 April 2025 text: Manon Boot