20. April 2026
Quantum technologies must now move more quickly from research to practical application: with a panel discussion on quantum technologies for the sovereignty and competitiveness of European industry, Forschungszentrum Jülich brought to the fore at HANNOVER MESSE 2026 a topic that is central to the technological future of Germany and Europe.
Prof. Kobus Kuipers, a member of the Board of Directors of Forschungszentrum Jülich, summed it up on the podium as follows: "When it comes to AI, the major players are currently in the US and China. How can we prevent this from happening with quantum computing too?" The message from the discussion was clear: quantum technologies are a key strategic technology. The crucial task now is to accelerate the transfer to industrial application and to strengthen cooperation between research, industry, start-ups and policy-makers at an early stage and in a reliable manner.
This is precisely where Forschungszentrum Jülich brings its particular strengths to bear: with scientific excellence, high-performance infrastructures and the commitment to thinking strategically about quantum technologies from development through to application.
Kuipers added: "We are already collaborating with companies in the field of quantum computing and conducting research in Jülich ranging from quantum materials to the first prototype of a quantum computer. And we want to go further: together with industry, we are now launching the development and practical use of a universal quantum computer. To actively shape the future of quantum computing."
Alongside Kobus Kuipers, the panel discussion also featured Alexandra Gwyn Paetz, department head of the Technological Sovereignty & Innovation department at the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space, Manfred Rieck, head of the Quantum Technologies Research Groups at Deutsche Bahn, and Dr Marcus Hennig, Chief Business Officer at planqc. The discussion was moderated by Johannes Döbbelt.
