Helmholtz Quantum Use Challenge
With the Quantum Use Challenge, the Helmholtz Association promotes innovative research projects that aim to translate quantum technologies into concrete applications. The initiative’s goal is to harness the potential of quantum computing, quantum sensing, and related technologies to address key societal challenges in the fields of health, energy, and Earth & environment. A particular focus lies on close collaboration between developers of quantum technologies and users from various disciplines in order to accelerate the transfer into practical applications.
The project duration is three years, and all projects started on January 1, 2026.
With the Quantum Use Challenge, the Helmholtz Association promotes innovative research projects that aim to translate quantum technologies into concrete applications. The initiative’s goal is to harness the potential of quantum computing, quantum sensing, and related technologies to address key societal challenges in the fields of health, energy, and Earth & environment. A particular focus lies on close collaboration between developers of quantum technologies and users from various disciplines in order to accelerate the transfer into practical applications.
The project duration is three years, and all projects started on January 1, 2026.
QT-Batt - Quantum Technology for Batteries
QT-Batt is investigating how quantum technologies can enable better and more sustainable batteries for the future.
Researchers are combining quantum computing and quantum sensing to better understand the processes occurring inside batteries. Quantum computers simulate the behavior of battery materials across multiple scales, thereby helping to develop improved components such as solid electrolytes and advanced electrodes.
At the same time, the project is developing highly sensitive quantum sensors capable of measuring minute changes in temperature and electromagnetic fields in batteries while they are in operation. These sensors provide important insights into battery function, aging, and potential failures.
By combining quantum science and energy research, QT-Batt aims to develop tools for longer-lasting, safer, and more efficient batteries—thereby supporting clean energy technologies and a sustainable future.
Contact
Prof. Dr. Robert Spatschek
Group leader - Institute of Energy Materials
and Devices (IMD-1)
Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH
QuBiopsy – Quantum biopsy for cancer visualization on the macro- and microscales
QuBiopsy is investigating how quantum-based imaging technologies can improve the detection of cancer cells that are difficult to detect using current medical methods.
In many types of cancer, tiny clusters of cells—or micrometastases—can spread throughout the body long before they become visible using conventional imaging or biopsy techniques. QuBiopsy aims to detect these rare cells earlier and more reliably by combining several advanced quantum-based imaging approaches.
One approach uses diamond-based quantum sensors to detect extremely weak magnetic signals with very high spatial resolution. Another uses highly sensitive magnetometers to measure weak magnetic signals across larger sample volumes. To make tumor cells easier to detect, the project also employs magnetic nanoparticles that specifically bind to cancer cells and amplify their magnetic signal.
In addition, QuBiopsy uses entangled photons to generate high-contrast microscopic images of tumor tissue and micrometastases.
By combining these technologies into a single diagnostic platform, QuBiopsy aims to overcome the limitations of current biopsy and imaging methods. The goal is to enable earlier cancer diagnosis and more precise diagnostics, thereby improving treatment decisions and outcomes.
Contact
PD Dr. Georgy Astakhov
Department Head, Quantum Technologies (FWIQ)
Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials Research
Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR)
QuWIRK - Quantum Algorithms for Drug Discovery
QuWIRK is investigating how quantum computing can support the development of new drugs, particularly for the treatment of infectious diseases.
The development of new active compounds is a complex process that requires the analysis of large biological datasets and an understanding of the interactions between molecules and proteins in the body. QuWIRK aims to develop quantum algorithms that help researchers tackle these challenging tasks more efficiently.
In the early stages of drug discovery, the project focuses on analyzing biological data, such as comparing DNA sequences, identifying different cell types, and recognizing key patterns in gene activity. These insights help to better understand diseases and identify promising targets for drugs.
In later phases, QuWIRK investigates how quantum computing can help identify and optimize potential drug molecules. This includes analyzing the binding of molecules to proteins and improving the efficacy of drug candidates.
The project is developing prototypes that can run on today’s quantum computers, while also exploring how future quantum computers could further accelerate drug development.
By combining quantum technology and biomedical research, QuWIRK aims to open up new avenues for the faster and more efficient development of life-saving drugs.
Contact
Prof. Dr. Frank Wilhelm-Mauch
Director - Institute for Quantum Computing Analytics (PGI-12)
Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH
qFLOW – Quantum-Assisted Simulation of Complex Flows—From Droplets to Groundwater
qFLOW explores how quantum computing can help address key challenges in the areas of climate resilience, clean energy, and water security.
Many important natural and technical processes involve the movement of fluids, such as groundwater flowing through soil or gas bubbles in liquids. These processes are described by complex mathematical models and are difficult to simulate on relevant scales even with the most powerful supercomputers.
qFLOW aims to develop quantum-assisted simulation methods that can model such complex flows more efficiently. The focus is on two areas: groundwater and reservoir systems, which are crucial for water management, and multiphase flows, which play an important role in many energy and industrial technologies.
To this end, experts in quantum technology and fluid dynamics are working closely together to develop new algorithms and tools that are both scientifically sound and practically applicable.
By combining quantum computing with environmental and energy research, qFLOW aims to open up new possibilities for better predictions, more efficient resource management, and more sustainable technologies.
Contact
Prof. Dr. Werner Dobrautz
Head of AI4Quantum – Machine Learning for Quantum Simulation and Computing
Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZD