Amsterdam officially selected by EU to host new quantum computer at Science Park

New quantum computer to boost Amsterdam’s tech scene

In a major advancement for European quantum computing, the EuroHPC has revealed that SURF, in collaboration with QuantumDelta NL, will host a new European quantum computer. This cutting-edge system will be located at Amsterdam Science Park and will integrate with the Dutch national supercomputer, Snellius. 

This combination will allow Amsterdam to become one of the first European cities where classical and quantum computing can work together. Using the strengths of both systems it will be able to tackle tasks that classical supercomputers struggle with, such as optimising traffic flows in smart cities or simulating molecular structures for drug discovery. 

“It makes complete sense to have the next generation of computing capabilities housed here” commented Ariana Torres Lead quantum computing at SURF, the collaborative organisation for IT in Dutch education and research. Located at Amsterdam Science Park, the new quantum computer will be positioned alongside a network of research institutions, including QuSoft and the University of Amsterdam – as well as a growing number of quantum startups and labs.

Why Amsterdam?

The decision to house the new computer in Amsterdam reflects the city’s strengths in digital and quantum technology. Amsterdam Science Park’s existing infrastructure—home to the Amsterdam Internet Exchange (AMS-IX) and various pioneering research centres—makes it ideal for this hybrid computing system. The area also hosts Quantum. Amsterdam, which aims to drive innovation and economic growth in quantum technology across the region. 

“The Netherlands has one of the strongest quantum ecosystems in Europe and the world. And Amsterdam, in particular, is home to several quantum organisations like QuSoft, UvA, and AMOLF, leading the way in quantum software, materials, and information theory."

Amsterdam’s Science Park

The addition of a quantum computer is expected to have a transformative impact on Amsterdam’s tech landscape. Amsterdam Science Park has recently welcomed a series of quantum initiatives, like the Quantum Applications Lab, and new companies, like Quix Quantum, bringing new advancements to the region’s quantum ecosystem. Amsterdam-based Fermioniq is also working with next-generation quantum emulation tools to accelerate the development of quantum technologies.

In education, the UvA recently introduced a Quantum Computer Science Master’s programme, and the Q-TLC has begun supporting talent development. Additionally, Science Park is set to open LabQ, a new space where quantum initiatives can come together, promoting collaboration in research and development. 

The future of quantum in Europe

Regarding applications, the key strength of quantum computers is their ability to simulate quantum systems, revolutionising chemistry and impacting fields like medicine, energy and agriculture. This capability will transform the way we approach chemistry and material sciences by helping to understand molecular systems more accurately and make faster discoveries.

The EU’s commitment to creating a full-spectrum quantum ecosystem not only highlights the technology’s promise but also its potential to bring transformative change to a range of different sectors. 

“Quantum technology is moving fast, and Europe wants to stay at the forefront of this game-changing technology. Being part of this larger EU initiative puts Amsterdam on the map and allows the Netherlands to participate in important conversations about the future of quantum.” 

This project is expected to attract startups and scale-ups, particularly those developing quantum hardware, software, and applications, creating a fertile ground for innovation and economic growth within the local and EU tech ecosystems. 

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