source: NWO

Both projects that have been awarded funding focus on quantum computers. These are intelligent and powerful computers that process information in a new way and can thus force big and important breakthroughs. It is important to think about the impact of this on society at an early stage. With the NWA program 'Societal impact of quantum technology', NWO is therefore stimulating research into the influences that this technology will have on our society. This call is co-funded by the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy.

High-quality security solutions for quantum computers

Quantum computers offer opportunities, but can also pose a threat when malicious parties use them to attack critical information systems, such as healthcare, energy or defense. In the FIQCS consortium, Eindhoven University of Technology, TNO, CEN-CENELEC, PhotonDelta and Quantum Delta NL, among others, are joining forces with a number of international cooperation partners and eight companies. They will develop high-quality security solutions that will be widely accepted and trusted by our society.

Quantum Secure Cryptography

Quantum computers are expected to scale up in the next two decades, which will have a huge practical societal impact on the cybersecurity of financial institutions and governments. Due to the high risk, it is necessary to prepare a transition to encryption that is resistant to attacks by quantum computers. The QISS consortium is a collaboration of, among others, the University of Amsterdam, Fontys Hogescholen, Rathenau Institute, Council for Public Administration, Leiden University, the Ministries of the Interior and Kingdom Relations (BZK), Justice and Security (J&V), Infrastructure and Water Management ( I&W), ECP | Platform for the Information Society, De Nederlandsche Bank, ABN AMRO, Quantum Delta NL and a number of international partners. They will investigate the impact of this transition and thus contribute to a Dutch ecosystem for quantum secure cryptography. They will also inform the general public and develop responsible innovation policy and regulations.

Nationale Wetenschapsagenda (NWA)

NWO carries out the NWA on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW). The aim of the NWA is to use knowledge to make a positive, structural contribution to society of tomorrow, by building bridges today and ensuring scientific breakthroughs and social impact together. This is given substance, among other things, through thematic programming in collaboration with government authorities. The aim of the thematic NWA programs is to find answers to current social questions. All research is interdisciplinary and involves the entire breadth of the knowledge chain as well as relevant social partners.