Newsroom / Press release

Quandela, the CNRS, Université Paris-Saclay and Université Paris Cité join forces to accelerate research and innovation in quantum photonics

On November 13th 2024, Quandela, the CNRS, Université Paris-Saclay, and Université Paris Cité inaugurated at the Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (CNRS/Université Paris-Saclay/Université Paric Cité) the QDlight associated research laboratory […]

  • Quantum photonics, or the art of controlling light in the quantum regime, should revolutionise data processing and security, with an impact across a range of industries.
  • Quandela, a European leader company for photonic quantum computing, is combining its know-how with that of the CNRS, Université Paris-Saclay, and Université Paris Cité in order to intensify scientific research and innovation in this field. 
  • The objective is to preserve French sovereignty in the design of photonic quantum computers, namely by increasing their computing power.

On November 13th 2024, Quandela, the CNRS, Université Paris-Saclay, and Université Paris Cité inaugurated at the Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (CNRS/Université Paris-Saclay/Université Paric Cité) the QDlight associated research laboratory focusing on research in quantum photonics, which is to say the art of controlling light in the quantum regime inside nanoscale devices. Over the course of six years, the teams will expand scientific cooperation with a view to developing next generation quantum light emitters, as well as their applications in quantum information technology to secure unprecedented computing power.

Quantum photonics, or the art of controlling light in the quantum regime

Quantum photonics, which has been developed since the late twentieth century, seeks to take advantage of the specifically quantum properties of light—especially single photons (emitted one by one)—for quantum computing and communications security. This discipline offers one of the most promising avenues for quantum computing (quantum computers and networks), as well as for inviolable key distribution protocols in encryption (quantum cryptography).

Quandela, a leading European company for photonic quantum computing that emerged from the Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (CNRS/Université Paris-Saclay/Université Paris Cité), has produced and marketed quantum light emitters in Europe since 2017–components that are indispensable to photonic quantum computing technology–and also launched the production of photonic quantum computers in 2023. These emitters, which consist of a quantum dot that behaves like an artificial atom in a semiconductor matrix, can generate a series of on-demand and indistinguishable single photons through a succession of laser pulses concentrating on this artificial atom.

In the optimal resonance and photon extraction conditions provided by the optical cavity in which it is positioned, these quantum dots can generate a photon flux with a rate of a few dozen megahertz, which efficiently implement quantum computing protocols on a photonic chip.

Toward unprecedented computing power and efficiency

This new associated research laboratory aims to develop emitters and protocols to generate new quantum states of light, with a view to creating a fault-tolerant photonic quantum computer1, and to demonstrating quantum communication protocols.

Pour ce faire, les travaux s’inscriront dans deux axes de recherche :

  • The project’s “optical” focus will first develop quantum photonic entanglement protocols,2 in order to create multi-partite entangled photon chains and graphs . These non-classical states of light are central to the “made-to-measure” quantum computing paradigm, which is the most promising framework for creating a universal quantum machine.
  • The “growth” research focus will concentrate on the quality of the quantum-dot-based photonic devices that will be produced within the Labcom. This will notably involve growing materials of very high purity–on which the “quantum purity” of photons depends–as well as increasing the reproducibility of photonic device production.

QDlight, pursuing close public-private research collaboration

This associated research laboratory (Labcom) is in line with the collaboration, since 2017, between Quandela and the research laboratory from which it emerged, the Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. This collaboration led to numerous interactions between researchers and engineers for basic research on the physics of semiconductor quantum dots, light-matter interaction in solid microcavities, protocols for the generation and measurement of quantum light, and for the first implementation of quantum protocols and computing.

The QDlight Labcom represents the next phase in conserving a global competitive head-start in semiconductor single-photon source technology, in addition to ensuring their constant improvement and using their exceptional properties in research and development activities.

The CNRS is thrilled by the creation of QDlight, which combines the excellence of teams from the C2N laboratory with the Quandela company, a European leader in photonic quantum computing that emerged from the academic world, and doubly contributes to positioning French public research in quantum technology at the highest global level”, explains Antoine Petit, the CNRS Chairman and CEO.

This research aims to preserve our global technological leadership in quantum photonics”, indicates Quandela co-founder and CEO Niccolo Somaschi.

It is a great pleasure to be here at C2N, a leading site for French research in nanoscience and nanotechnology, in order to inaugurate this new Labcom, a symbol of successful synergy between national research organisations, universities, and deeptech enterprises. It will combine high-level academic and technological expertise in order to overcome scientific and technological obstacles in this crucial field of quantum photonics, all while contributing to the training of students and young researchers”, says Camille Galap, the President of Université Paris-Saclay.

Université Paris Cité is proud to have contributed to the creation of this joint laboratory, which illustrates the capacity for collaboration between universities, NROs and the private sector. It is essential to combine our strengths and expertise for the benefit of research and innovation, particularly in a field as strategic as quantum technology”, explains Édouard Kaminski, President of Université Paris Cité.

“ We are proud of the creation of this associated research laboratory, which gives concrete form to years of a trusting relationship, and will help us support efforts to strengthen Quandela’s knowledge and expertise in quantum photonics alongside our partners”, emphasises Thierry Dauxois, Director of CNRS Physique.

ABOUT THE CNRS

A major player in basic research worldwide, the National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) is the only French organisation active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist enables it to bring together all of the scientific disciplines in order to shed light on and understand the challenges of today’s world, in connection with public and socio-economic stakeholders. Together, the different sciences contribute to sustainable progress that benefits society as a whole. (www.cnrs.fr/en)

ABOUT UNIVERSITÉ PARIS-SACLAY

Université Paris-Saclay was born from the shared ambition of French universities, grandes écoles and national research organisations. As a leading university in Europe and the world, it covers the fields of science and engineering, life sciences and health, and humanities and social sciences. The university’s science policy closely intertwines research and innovation, incorporating both basic and applied science to tackle major societal challenges. Université Paris-Saclay offers a varied range of undergraduate to doctorate level degrees, including programmes with its grandes écoles, all of which are focused on achieving student success and employability. The university prepares students for an ever-changing world where the ability to think critically, remain agile and renew one’s skills are crucial. Université Paris-Saclay also offers a comprehensive range of lifelong learning courses. Located to the south of Paris, the university extends across a vast and rich local area. Its location strengthens both its international visibility and its close ties with its socio-economic partners (major companies, SMEs, start-ups, local authorities, charities). (www.universite-paris-saclay.fr/en/)

ABOUT UNIVERSITE PARIS CITÉ

At the heart of a global network of knowledge and innovation, Université Paris Cité is one of France’s leading multidisciplinary universities. Born in 2019 from the merger of the universities of Paris Diderot, Paris Descartes and Institut de physique du globe de Paris, the ambition of Université Paris Cité is to lead and develop an exceptional potential to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s society. It covers a wide range of disciplines, with one of the most comprehensive and ambitious educational offerings available in the world. Université Paris Cité is part of the incarnation of a world city, aware of its place and missions, open to youth and knowledge. It has 63,000 students, 7,500 teaching and research staff, 21 doctoral schools and 117 research units. u-paris.fr (u-paris.fr/en)

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[VIVATECH] AdvanThink and Quandela demonstrate the ability to integrate Quantum Artificial Intelligence into proven payment fraud detection models  

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Paris – Saclay, June 17, 2025 

AdvanThink, Europe’s leading expert in real-time payment fraud detection, and Quandela, a leader in quantum computing, have established a strategic partnership aimed at transforming the future of payment fraud prevention.  

The Promise: By leveraging the complementary strengths of AI and quantum computing, the two companies aim to develop high-performance fraud detection models designed for real-world deployment. These systems will be capable of identifying payment fraud faster and with greater accuracy than existing solutions.

Detecting payment fraud in real time remains one of today’s most significant technological, operational, and strategic challenges. In response to constantly evolving fraud techniques, AdvanThink has spent 35 years building strategic tools powered by artificial intelligence that continuously learn and adapt to emerging threats. In this ongoing race to improve performance, artificial intelligence has become an essential tool, capable of detecting subtle warning signs across large volumes of data with unprecedented precision and speed. 

Future requirements will be even more demanding. Fraud detection models will need to be faster, more accurate, more energy-efficient, and more resilient against increasingly sophisticated attacks. It is within this context that AdvanThink and Quandela have joined forces to explore the potential of quantum computing and push the boundaries of state-of-the-art fraud detection. 

The first phase of this partnership will focus on developing a proof of concept that demonstrates the value of integrating quantum machine learning algorithms into AdvanThink’s industrial pipelines.

“For 35 years, AdvanThink has placed technological innovation at the heart of its development strategy. Quantum AI holds a significant promise when it comes to fraud detection. It serves as a powerful catalyst for innovation in building the secure payment solutions of tomorrow – and financial institutions need to begin acknowledging this transformation today. We have already successfully integrated Quandela’s technology into an AdvanThink pipeline, meeting all the requirements of an industrial-grade system ready for deployment. This first demonstrator holds great potential for experts in fraud detection,” says Brice Perdrix, CEO of AdvanThink.

“Quandela has already developed a quantum machine learning model that enhances credit risk assessment. The algorithm also shows strong potential in payment fraud detection. Quandela’s partnership with AdvanThink facilitates the integration of this model into an industrial workflow and enables benchmarking against the best products on the market,” adds Niccolo Somaschi, co-founder and CEO of Quandela.

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MerLin Unveiled: The First Quantum Layer for Data Scientists, Optimized for NVIDIA Accelerated Computing 

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Launching at GTC Paris, MerLin democratizes quantum machine learning by integrating with classical AI tools—backed by GPU-accelerated performance 

Paris, France – June 11th – Today, Quandela announces MerLin, a groundbreaking quantum computing framework designed for and by AI data scientists. Set to debut at NVIDIA GTC Paris, MerLin redefines quantum machine learning (QML) with a GPU-first approach, enabling researchers to simulate and benchmark algorithms beyond the limits of today’s quantum hardware. 

Quantum Meets AI: A Collaborative Future 

MerLin positions itself as the “quantum layer for data scientists” – contrasting with other quantum machine learning tools that target quantum scientists. By abstracting quantum complexity into familiar workflows (e.g., PyTorch/scikit-learn integrations), MerLin empowers AI practitioners to prototype hybrid quantum-classical models in hours, not months. Early adopters – including teams from the Perceval Quest, and researchers from Mila, NYUAD’s QML Lab and Scaleway – are collaborating with us to leverage MerLin and bridge classical and quantum workflows. 

Quantum shouldn’t demand a PhD to use,” said Niccolo Somaschi, co-founder & CEO of Quandela. “MerLin gives data scientists a GPU-accelerated gateway to quantum advantage while ensuring their work remains compatible with real hardware today—and tomorrow. By integrating benchmarks and noise-aware validation, we’re addressing a critical gap: the lack of reproducible metrics in hybrid algorithm research.” 

Powerful simulation tools are essential to develop better algorithms and accelerate the path to broad quantum advantage”, said Sam Stanwyck, Group Product Manager for quantum computing at NVIDIA. “MerLin solves a critical ecosystem need by opening the door for the broader research community to develop with photonic quantum circuits.” 

Key Innovations 

  1. GPU-Optimized Simulators
  • Leveraging NVIDIA CUDA-Q, MerLin delivers high-performance simulation for photonic quantum circuits, enabling tests for hardware that doesn’t yet exist (e.g., 24+ qubit systems). 
  1. Benchmark-Driven Progress
  • MerLin establishes reproducible metrics for hybrid algorithms, addressing the “benchmarking gap” in QML research—where thousands of papers lack standardized comparisons. 
  • Integrated with Quandela Cloud, it enables immediate validation of GPU-optimized algorithms on real photonic hardware, studying noise impact and scalability. 
  • Targets pragmatic use cases like quantum-enhanced kNN, GANs, and variational algorithms—backed by hardware-aware compilation. 
  1. Photonic-First, Future-Proof
  • Designed for today’s photonic QPUs (e.g., Perceval-based systems) but architected to adapt to next-gen hardware. 
  • Features like dynamic circuit recompilation ensure code scalability across hardware generations. 

Who Uses MerLin? 

  • AI/ML Practitioners: Prototype quantum layers without rewriting classical pipelines. 
  • Quantum Researchers: Access photonic-specific tools (e.g., boson sampling) with GPU-accelerated simulation. 
  • Enterprises: Pilot hybrid quantum-AI workflows with clear ROI benchmarks. 

MerLin allowed us to adapt existing algorithms to a photonic-native format within a short timeframe. The platform offered useful comparative insights that contributed to our ongoing research and publication efforts”, said Dr. Louis Chen, an early user, Research Associate at the Quantum Centre of Imperial College London (Imperial QuEST) and participant in the most recent Perceval Quest.

Availability & Strategic Vision 

MerLin will be freely accessible to accelerate adoption, with enterprise tiers for advanced features. The roadmap includes: 

  • Q2 2025: Stable PyTorch/scikit-learn APIs. 
  • 2026+: Support for 24+ qubit photonic systems. 

Learn More: merlinquantum.ai 

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French-German cooperation advances Europe’s quantum computer Lucy

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WITTENSTEIN and Quandela underscore European innovative strength

Two leading technology companies from Germany and France are joining forces to help shape Europe’s future in quantum computing: attocube systems GmbH, a company of the WITTENSTEIN group and specialist in nanotechnology, and Quandela, a pioneer in photonic quantum computer technology. The companies have been working together on the development of the European quantum computer Lucy. Representatives of the owners, Management Board and senior management of the WITTENSTEIN group took advantage of a visit to Paris to meet with the Quandela team and assess the status of the joint project.

Lucy is no ordinary computer. It is based on light particles – known as photons – and belongs to a new generation of quantum computers that are opening up completely new possibilities in areas such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, and materials research. The quantum computer was commissioned by the European High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU) following a competitive tender process won by the Quandela-attocube consortium.

The collaboration between Quandela and attocube demonstrates how European companies can work together to achieve technological excellence. While Quandela is developing the photonic quantum platform, attocube is supplying high-precision cryogenic systems—technology that generates the extremely low temperatures required for quantum processes.

The visit to France focused on technical progress and system integration. The participants discussed how quantum and classical computers can be combined even more effectively in the future—for example, for hybrid applications in AI or complex simulations.

“Lucy is more than a technical project – she is a symbol of European innovation,” said Dr. Bertram Hoffmann, CEO of WITTENSTEIN SE. Niccolo Somaschi, co-founder and CEO of Quandela, added: “Lucy stands for technological excellence and for the common goal of making Europe a world leader in quantum computing.”

Lucy is scheduled to go into operation later this year. It will be based at the French supercomputer center CEA TGCC, where it will serve as the cornerstone of a sovereign European quantum ecosystem.