Insider Brief
- Ericsson Canada and École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS) have launched a Mitacs-supported research project to develop quantum computing methods for improving telecom network operations.
- The research team will investigate variational quantum algorithms, focusing on error mitigation and optimization through experiments using quantum hardware and simulations.
- The project is the second Mitacs-funded academic collaboration under Ericsson Canada’s Montreal Quantum Research Hub, which supports quantum research and talent development in Quebec.
PRESS RELEASE — Ericsson Canada and École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS) have teamed up to further quantum computing research in Quebec, one of the country’s primary quantum computing centres. With support from the Mitacs Accelerate program, the project aims to develop better quantum computing methods that will help run and manage telecom networks more efficiently, while also training students and researchers in cutting-edge quantum technology that supports Canada’s leadership in this field.
“Quantum computing will unlock new ways to make telecommunications networks more efficient, and Canada is well positioned to lead that work,” says Nishant Grover, President, Ericsson Canada. “Through our Montreal Quantum Research Hub and our partnership with ÉTS, supported by Mitacs Accelerate, we’re bringing together world-class research and industry expertise to advance practical quantum methods for telecom network operations.”
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, says: “Quantum technologies will shape the course of our future and Canada is a world leader in this emerging technology space. As a long-trusted partner in Canada’s technology ecosystem for more than 70 years, we were encouraged by the establishment of Ericsson Canada’s Quantum hub in Montreal, and we welcome this new partnership which will further strengthen Canada’s competitive advantage.”
The project, titled “Toward Scalable Variational Quantum Algorithms: A Dissipative Approach to Mitigation and Optimization,” brings together Professor Jacob Biamonte, an internationally recognized quantum computing researcher, and his research team at ÉTS with researchers from the Ericsson Quantum Program, with support from Mitacs. Building on Biamonte’s foundational contributions to variational quantum computing, the collaboration investigates methods to mitigate errors and improve optimization in quantum algorithms. Using quantum hardware and simulations, the team aims to advance the reliability and practical performance of quantum computation.
“At ÉTS, we see advanced quantum infrastructure as essential to world-class research, the training of highly qualified talent, and the growth of Canada’s quantum ecosystem. This partnership with Ericsson gives our researchers the means to pursue ambitious work at the frontier of quantum computing while contributing to Canada’s long-term scientific and technological leadership,” says Kathy Baig, Director General and Chief Executive Officer at ÉTS.
Anders Vestergren, Head of Ericsson Research, says: “This partnership with ÉTS represents exactly the kind of collaboration we need to move quantum computing from promise to practice. Variational quantum algorithms hold real potential for solving complex optimization problems in telecom networks, but only if we can overcome the hardware limitations that exist today. Working alongside Professor Biamonte’s team, we’re taking concrete steps toward making quantum-accelerated networks a reality.”
This collaboration is the second Mitacs-funded academic project established under the Ericsson Canada Quantum Research Hub in Montreal, following the ongoing collaboration with the Université de Sherbrooke, which was renewed this year. The Montreal hub was created in 2022 to explore quantum-based algorithms for accelerating processing in telecom networks and distributed quantum computing, in partnership with Canadian universities and the broader quantum ecosystem.
“Quantum is a priority for Mitacs; since 2018, we’ve invested more than $34.8 million in quantum technologies, supporting over 700 innovation projects with more than 180 companies,” says Dr. Stephen Lucas, CEO of Mitacs. “In this project, students are working alongside Ericsson and ÉTS researchers on real quantum hardware, building the skills industry needs right here in Quebec. A strong pipeline of young talent is how Canada turns research investment into business results faster.”