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Description: The Department of Mathematical Engineering at INSA Rouen Normandie trains generalist engineers in applied mathematics and computer science. The department graduates approximately 60 engineers per year and is affiliated with the Laboratory of Mathematics (LMI, UR 3226), member of the CNRS Normandie Mathematics Research Federation.
Technical/scientific Challenge:
Quantum computing represents a technological revolution with promising applications in combinatorial optimization. The challenge of this project was to create a practical work module on quantum emulation specifically for Master 2 students, enabling them to experiment with Quantum Annealing algorithms on combinatorial optimization problems using Nvidia GPU resources available on HPC infrastructure. The project aimed to bridge theoretical concepts in quantum computing with hands-on experimentation in a high-performance computing environment.
Solution:
To address this challenge, CRIANN provided support and access to its Nvidia GPU HPC infrastructure, enabling the setup of quantum emulation environments for practical work. The team developed educational material and prepared the module in collaboration with INSA Rouen Normandie. The project culminated in a dedicated conference, "Quantum Annealing for Combinatorial Optimization," delivered to Master 2 students on February 3, 2025, providing both theoretical background and practical demonstrations of quantum emulation techniques applied to combinatorial optimization.
Business impact:
The project successfully integrated quantum computing concepts into INSA Rouen Normandie’s mathematical engineering curriculum. By leveraging HPC resources for practical experimentation, students gained hands-on experience with Quantum Annealing algorithms on realistic combinatorial optimization problems. This initiative not only enhanced the quality of education but also demonstrated the feasibility of using HPC infrastructure for advanced quantum emulation in higher education. The collaboration with CRIANN created a framework for future educational developments and innovative courses combining quantum computing and high-performance computing.
Benefits:
- Practical experience for students in quantum emulation and Quantum Annealing algorithms
- Integration of HPC infrastructure (Nvidia GPUs) into higher education teaching modules
- Enhanced curriculum with cutting-edge quantum computing applications
- Strengthened collaboration between academia and HPC facilities for educational innovation
- Foundation for future projects leveraging HPC for quantum computing education