FullStaQD: Full Stack Quantum Computing for Germany

Quantum computers are among the most promising technologies of the 21st century. The race for this key future technology and a sustainable position in this deep tech field is becoming increasingly important—not least in light of geopolitical developments. In order to establish competitiveness in this area and ensure German and European sovereignty, comprehensive and sovereign quantum computing infrastructures are needed in Germany. 

One of the key challenges is to transfer existing knowledge about the various layers of the quantum computing software stack into a consistent, communicable framework. In addition, the interface issue must be prioritised and quasi-standardisations developed. The quantum computing software stack comprises the layered structure of all components required for the development, operation and meaningful use of quantum computers, from firmware to application, from research to industry.

The FullStaQD flagship project builds on the QCNext innovation concept developed in the preliminary project. The project will first create a reference architecture at the meta level as an overarching integration framework and link existing solutions from various layers of the quantum computing software stack to form a holistic infrastructure. Technical gaps will be closed by newly developed components. 

Based on this integrating framework of a resilient reference architecture, specific end-to-end quantum computing software stacks can then be instantiated and validated for various concrete applications.  

1. Definition of the reference architecture, including interface specifications 
2. Requirements and design of the layers: 
   • Application Layer
   • System Layer
   • Physical Layer
   • Cross-layer Concerns
3. Testing of software stack instances (proof-of-concepts): Validation of specific stack instantiations and their components through practical use cases

The FullStaQD lighthouse project is establishing a quantum computing software infrastructure that is on an equal footing with the hardware. Taking into account the compatibility and interoperability of various components, a holistic quantum computing software stack, a “full stack,” is being developed. 

The project thus represents an important next step toward the use of quantum computing in German industry. In addition, it will be possible to address the broad landscape of quantum computing in Germany and provide better coverage than has been the case to date with unconnected and non-interoperable solutions.