Four new Norwegian research centres for quantum technology

Quantum technology concerns how the smallest constituents of nature can be harnessed, for example, for quantum cryptography to enhance security, new medical discoveries and sensor technology enabling GPS-free navigation.

Gearing up in the global quantum race

The four research centres will carry out research on quantum computing, quantum communication and quantum sensors and educate the next generation of experts.

"This is a milestone for Norway’s quantum initiative. These centres will give us knowledge and capacity, and they will work closely with industry, international partners and the public sector. Norway is now entering the international quantum race," says Minister of Research and Higher Education Sigrun Aasland (the Norwegian Labour Party).

Several countries are now investing heavily in quantum technology, and the United States and China are vying to be at the forefront. The Nordic countries are working closely together to become a world-leading destination for companies, investments and talent in quantum technology.

The Norwegian government's initiative on quantum technology

• Over the next five years, the Norwegian government will spend a total of at least NOK 1.1 billion on research into quantum technology.
• The government has funded 100 new places in study programmes in quantum technology.
• The government's strategy for quantum technology will be published in 2026.
• The Government's plan for Norway states that Norway will invest in quantum technology, defence technology and underwater technology, while strengthening export controls to protect security-sensitive knowledge.

"This is a strategic investment in Norway's security. Quantum technology will change the basis for digital communication and may, in the long term, challenge today's defence systems. With these research centres we are building expertise and technology that will enable us to meet new threats and strengthen overall preparedness. This is about securing Norway at a time when technological superiority is becoming crucial to national security,” says Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik.

The new centres will focus in particular on basic research in mathematics, the natural sciences and technology.

“Norway needs strong research communities that conduct groundbreaking work in quantum technology, and today we have established four research centres that will provide valuable knowledge and take this effort forward,” says Mari Sundli Tveit, Chief Executive of the Research Council of Norway.

The new centres have strong international links and close collaboration with industry and bussiness, and will work with the Niels Bohr Institute in Copenhagen, Linköping University and major Norwegian industrial partners such as Kongsberg, IBM Norway, DNB and Statkraft.