Leiden University Hosts Taiwan Delegation to Explore Photonic Quantum Computing

Leiden University hosted a delegation from Taiwan on March 27th to foster collaboration on the development of future photonic quantum computers, recognizing the growing link between the two nations in technology and strategic innovation. The meeting, known as Taiwan Research Day, highlighted shared expertise in photonics, a technology utilizing light for applications ranging from faster internet to advanced medical devices, and semiconductors, with Leiden University contributing its strengths in quantum states of light and software algorithms. Taiwan brings to the partnership one of the world’s most comprehensive semiconductor ecosystems. “Days like this spark collaborations and boost science and technology,” said Professor Jasper Knoester, Dean of the Faculty of Science at Leiden University. This initiative, supported by programs like PhotonDelta and TechBridge, aims to accelerate innovation and potentially create the first photon-based quantum computer. Taiwan-Netherlands Photonics Collaboration for Quantum Computing The field of quantum computing received a boost as researchers from Taiwan and the Netherlands convened at Leiden University on March 27th for ‘Taiwan Research Day’, signaling a deepening collaboration focused on photonic quantum technologies. Despite considerable geographical separation, Taiwan and the Netherlands maintain strong ties in technology and strategic sectors, a relationship Representative Chung-Kwang Tien of the Taipei Representative Office in the Netherlands described using the analogy of ‘quantum entanglement’ during his opening remarks. This academic event underscored Leiden University’s commitment to international partnerships and the increasing importance of joint research in areas like photonics and semiconductor innovation, areas critical to realizing practical quantum computers. A central theme of the meeting was photonics, the use of light to transmit information, which underpins advancements in areas ranging from high-speed internet to sophisticated medical diagnostics. Leiden University’s strengths in creating and measuring quantum states of light, coupled with expertise in quantum software, complement Taiwan’s established dominance in semiconductor manufacturing. Associate professor Michiel de Dood detailed how the university contributes to developing pathways to photonic quantum computing through the Photonics-Taiwan Consortium and the Photon Delta research programme, with the goal of building a functional photon-based quantum computer. This partnership is bolstered by funding from the Dutch Research Council’s PhotonDelta initiative, supported by the National Growth Fund, and bilateral programs like TechBridge, all designed to encourage cross-border research and development in photonic integrated circuits, essential components for future computing, communication, and sensing technologies.

Taiwan Research Day also prioritized fostering the next generation of scientists, providing a platform for early-career researchers to present their work and network with established experts, which will support the long-term viability of this international collaboration. Photon Delta & NWO-KIC Support Cross-Border Research The convergence of quantum research and semiconductor technology increasingly relies on international partnerships, as evidenced by a meeting hosted by Leiden University on March 27th bringing together experts from the Netherlands and Taiwan. Despite significant geographical distance, a strong technological and strategic connection already exists between the two nations, prompting collaborative efforts focused on advancing photonic quantum computing. Leiden University contributes specialized expertise in generating and analyzing quantum states of light, alongside quantum software algorithm development, while Taiwan offers a uniquely dense and comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem. This collaboration aims to be a global leader in the creation of a photon-based quantum computer. Beyond established researchers, the Taiwan Research Day prioritized opportunities for early-career scientists to present their work, network with experts, and foster international connections, demonstrating a broader trend of increasing global collaboration with Leiden University actively participating in addressing worldwide challenges through partnerships like this one. ‘Days like this spark collaborations and boost science and technology,’ reflects Professor Jasper Knoester, Dean of the Faculty of Science at Leiden University. ‘By working together, Dutch and Taiwanese researchers can speed up innovation in this field. It is inspiring to welcome both colleagues from Taiwan and Europe and hear their excellent discussions.’Professor Jasper Knoester, Dean of the Faculty of Science at Leiden University Source: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/news/2026/03/quantum-experts-from-taiwan-and-the-netherlands-meet-in-leiden Tags: Quantum News There is so much happening right now in the field of technology, whether AI or the march of robots. Adrian is an expert on how technology can be transformative, especially frontier technologies. But Quantum occupies a special space. Quite literally a special space. A Hilbert space infact, haha! Here I try to provide some of the news that is considered breaking news in the Quantum Computing and Quantum tech space. Latest Posts by Quantum News: EPB Joins Southeastern Quantum Collaborative to Expand Regional Innovation April 1, 2026 Infleqtion Validates Picosecond Accuracy in Real-World Timing Demonstration April 1, 2026 Researchers Publish Findings on Practical Blind Quantum Computation April 1, 2026