Interconnects for next generation hybrid quantum-classical systems

Purpose and goal:

Quantum Computing (QC) systems have the potential to offer a distinct advantage in addressing real-world problems that are challenging for classical computing alone, even on powerful high-performance computing (HPC) systems. We propose a mixed machine model to abstract QC systems (non-Von Neumann architecture) with integration to HPC (Von Neumann architecture), and a performance model for assessing applications at different scales on a target architecture.

Expected results and effects:

We will develop a hierarchical machine model to encapsulate the distinctive features of components in an integrated QC-HPC system, and their interconnects at different granularities with jitter and synchronization characteristics. As proof of concept, two quantum applications, a reinforcement learning application used in antenna tiling and a variational quantum application used in drug discovery, will be considered and optimized at different QC- HPC interconnects and scales of QC systems using the developed models.

Approach and implementation:

The project is divided into four work packages. WP1 Modelling consists of a state-of-the-art review and the development of the machine model of general QC-HPC systems. WP2 Applications consists of a state-of-the-art review and the design of two hybrid QC-HPC applications.

WP3 Evaluation consists of the integration and validation of the two applications on the simulation model, and the evaluation of scalability changes in QC- HPC interconnects at different scales of QC systems. WP4 Management consists of the management and the dissemination of the project.