Project description
Where AI meets quantum physics
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is gaining momentum in science and basic research. ML is already employed in different areas of physics (big data processing and classification). The application of quantum computing to AI and ML is an exciting future application of quantum research. In this context, the EU-funded QuantAI will study the use of AI in basic science, with a focus on quantum information. The project will develop models of artificial agency which are beneficial for basic research and facilitate applications towards AI-driven quantum experiment and scientific discovery. For instance, classical artificial learning agents will be developed for use in adaptive schemes of quantum error correction and integrated into large-scale quantum computing architectures.
Objective
Quantum mechanics is our most fundamental theory of physics. It has formed, and often challenged, our understanding of physical reality. We use quantum mechanics to manipulate and control matter and light at the atomic scale, and it provides the basis for many new technologies. At the same time, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is gaining momentum in science and basic research. ML is already employed in different areas of physics, mostly for big data processing and classification. But the development of AI is heading much further and is likely to transform basic science in the near future. In this project, we will investigate the use of AI in basic science, with a focus on quantum physics and, more specifically, quantum information. We will develop models of artificial agency which are beneficial for basic research, both from a practical and a foundational perspective. We will develop classical artificial learning agents that can be used, e.g. for adaptive schemes of quantum error correction and integrated in large-scale quantum computing architectures, the design of complex quantum communication networks, and the study of novel computational phases of matter. The models of learning agents that we develop will facilitate applications towards AI-driven quantum experiment and scientific discovery. Our focus will be on transparent and interpretable models for artificial agency that are beneficial if not needed for basic science. These models can be used in future hybrid laboratories where human researchers will interact with AI assistant systems. On the foundational side, we will investigate quantum agents and the role of agency in quantum theory. These investigations will shed light not only on the possible ways of learning in a quantum environment, but also on the physical dimension of AI, the explainability of quantum AI, and the consistency of quantum theory.
Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2021-ADG
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
6020 Innsbruck
Austria
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.