QIAPO research project receives 2.3 million euros in funding

A new research project led by Saarland University aims to combine the strengths of quantum computers and classical computers in order to solve complex optimization problems from industry more efficiently. The project, called "QIAPO", is being funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space with around 2.3 million euros and is scheduled to run for three years.

In addition to Saarland University, industrial partners such as BMW, Infineon and the quantum computer start-up planqc from Garching near Munich are also involved.

Optimization problems as the central challenge

The project focuses on so-called optimization problems, such as the well-known "traveling salesman problem". Such problems arise in many areas of industry, such as logistics, production planning or pricing.

Despite powerful algorithms, conventional computers often reach their limits: Many of these problems can only be solved approximately and with high computational effort. This is precisely where the new approach comes in.

Quantum computers as "precomputers"

In QIAPO, a quantum computer takes on a preparatory role: it reduces highly complex problems to such an extent that classical computers can then process them more efficiently.

A quantum computer based on neutral atoms, developed by planqc, is used for this purpose. The special properties of qubits, which unlike classical bits can assume several states simultaneously, make quantum computers particularly suitable for simplifying complex mathematical structures.

Combining both worlds for better results

As soon as the quantum computer has reduced the size of the problem, classical algorithms that have been tried and tested in practice come into play. The aim of this combination is to achieve better approximate solutions than before.

Although this approach will not provide perfect solutions either, even small improvements can have a major impact in industrial applications. Even an increase in accuracy of just a few percentage points can have a considerable economic impact on high production volumes.

Industrial applicability

A central goal of the project is to translate real industrial challenges - for example in automotive production or semiconductor manufacturing - into quantum algorithms and test them in practice.

The partners want to find out whether the hybrid approach of quantum and classical methods can generate real added value for industry in the long term.

Three years of research with an open outcome

The project started at the beginning of 2026 and will run for three years. At the end, the main aim is to clarify whether the combined approach is fundamentally suitable for solving complex optimization problems better. Even if no complete breakthroughs are achieved, the project could provide important foundations for the future use of quantum computers in industrial applications.