OsloMet hosts the 4th annual NQLS
The 4th annual Nordic Quantum Life Science Round Table (NQLS) was held at Soria Moria on the 16th and 17th of september, hosted by NordSTAR, the Quantum Hub, OsloMet AI Lab and Simula.
Since 2021, representatives from Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway have taken turns hosting the event. Among the attending are academics, researchers, politicians and stakeholders from the public and private sector.
Promoting quantum computing
The round table aims to advance the field of quantum life sciences by debating and sharing knowledge between scientists and innovators.
By exploring advanced technology, software and algorithms, they hope to apply the knowledge to practical problems in life sciences in the future.
Head of NordSTAR and professor at OsloMet, Pedro Lind, emphasizes the value of promoting quantum computing towards life science applications.
– For instance, quantum computers could calculate the chemical combinations and matching effects of pharmaceuticals at a greater speed than any other computer, he explains.
Great turnout
Among several presentations were Shaukat Ali from SIMULA, on “The superposition of quantum computing and artificial intelligence”, Morten Hjort-Jensen on “Quantum technologies and machine learning, research and education at the University of Oslo” and Sølve Selstø, from the OsloMet Quantum Hub, presenting the challenges of teaching quantum computing to non-technical audiences.
Additionally, the statements “How to make Nordic Quantum Life Science stronger and more competitive” and “Quantum hardware requirements for first life science applications: Status and outlook” were debated.
Lind’s overall impressions of the event were very positive, specifically when observing this years Norwegian participation.
Next year, the torch will be passed back to the Swedish NQLS-group. Until then, the steering committee will be working on a position paper summarizing the discussions on Quantum Life Sciences so far.