The University of Latvia (LU) has signed an agreement with the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), joining the Open Quantum Institute (OQI) as a new member. This collaboration marks an important step in the development and application of quantum technologies to address global challenges and contribute to the achievement of the United Nations - UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
OQI's goal is to develop quantum technologies with practical applications that can help transform various sectors such as healthcare, energy and transportation and enable sustainable development on a global scale. With this agreement, LU will actively participate in the implementation of these goals by contributing to the field of quantum research and technology.
OQI was created under the auspices of the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator (GESDA) and started its pilot phase in 2024, hosted by CERN with the support of the investment bank UBS. The institute serves as a platform that brings together leading researchers and organizations from different countries to promote the exchange of quantum knowledge and technology, the development of innovations and their implementation in real life. Its goal is to create a global network of cooperation that would help solve the most complex challenges of modern science and society.
LU has more than two decades of experience in quantum research and its quantum research groups are internationally recognized for excellence in the field. The university is currently leading the Latvian Quantum Initiative project and is also a partner of the European Quantum Software Institute, as well as actively participating in the development of the international quantum community, strengthening cooperation with other leading institutes and universities. In addition, LU has been a leader in the creation and development of QWorld, a non-profit global network that promotes quantum computing and programming education, providing training and education to thousands of students from around the world. The new collaboration with CERN and other OQI partners will not only contribute to the advancement of quantum technology, but will also make a significant contribution to building a sustainable future for the entire society.
Photo: Toms Grīnbergs, LU Communication Department