Quantum Ideas Factory 2025: A Hands-On Hackathon for Quantum Programming

From February 21 to 23, 2025, the Quantum Ideas Factory 2025 – DIGIQ-EFEQT turned Jena into a hotspot for young quantum enthusiasts. The three-day event brought together students and early-career researchers for an intensive quantum programming hackathon, where they tackled real-world challenges in quantum science and technology.

Participants formed small teams and worked on coding-based challenges under the mentorship of leading experts. These projects ranged from training reinforcement learning agents to control qubits, developing pulse-shaping techniques for quantum sensors, and simulating Hamiltonians using quantum walks, to training physical systems as neural networks. The emphasis was on hands-on programming, leveraging Python and machine learning frameworks to develop novel quantum algorithms and simulations.

Beyond the coding sessions, the event fostered collaboration and creative problem-solving through informal discussions, networking opportunities, and social activities, including a BBQ and a city tour. The hackathon concluded with team presentations, where participants showcased their innovative solutions, followed by a prize ceremony and lab tours.

The Quantum Ideas Factory 2025 was organized as part of the EU-funded project DigiQ, which aims to build a pan-European quantum technology network by connecting students, researchers, and industry professionals. Through training programs and interdisciplinary collaboration, DigiQ supports the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers. More information on DigiQ can be found here.