QUEST progressed from an initial capacity-building phase into a consolidation and delivery phase, achieving significant technical and scientific results fully aligned with the Grant Agreement. A critical mass of researchers in quantum computing was established at CaSToRC, resulting in the first stable and visible quantum computing research group in Cyprus.
Core research activities were successfully launched in quantum algorithms, error mitigation, and hybrid quantum–classical methods, with concrete applications in physics, cryptography, and engineering, leading to peer-reviewed publications, preprints, and international conference contributions.
The Quantum Hub (QHub) became operational as a hardware-agnostic coordination platform, enabling benchmarking methodologies, simulator-based workflows, and access to alternative quantum hardware through structured collaboration with DESY/CQTA and other European partners. Scientific collaboration mechanisms were formalised through personnel exchanges, co-supervision of PhD students, joint training events, and shared research planning, embedding CyI research within leading European quantum networks.
In parallel, QUEST delivered tangible educational and capacity-building outcomes through new quantum computing modules at MSc and PhD level, hands-on training workshops, and the preparation of a future MSc programme in Quantum Computing. Initial technology-oriented and industrial engagement activities were also established, laying the groundwork for application-driven demonstrators, benchmarking use cases, and future innovation projects.
Collectively, these achievements confirm that QUEST has met its technical and scientific objectives for the period and is on a solid trajectory toward delivering its long-term scientific, technological, and institutional impact.
