RDA Microsoft Roundtable: From HPC to Quantum – Shaping the future of research computing | June 3rd
The transition from High-Performance Computing (HPC) to Quantum Computing presents new opportunities and challenges for research institutions and industry leaders. How can organisations prepare for this shift?
The RDA-Microsoft Roundtables will bring together leading researchers, technology experts, and policymakers across the globe to explore:
- The Evolving Role of HPC in Research – current applications, challenges and emerging trends
- The Potential of Quantum Computing – early applications and future impact
- Bridging the Gap Between HPC and Quantum – infrastructure, workforce development, and policy considerations
Who is it for?
Are you working with emerging technologies in your research? Or are you curious to learn more about HPC and Quantum Computing and their (potential) impact on science and society? All who are interested, regardless of expertise, are invited to join this event.
Agenda
Featuring keynote talks, expert panels, and interactive breakout sessions, this event is your chance to hear directly from the experts who are identifying practical pathways for integrating quantum computing into research workflows.
- Keynote speeches from research and industry experts
- Audience Q&A and discussion
- Break out discussion rooms
Insights will feed into a joint RDA-Microsoft white paper, guiding the global research community forward.
Join the discussion!
Confirmed Speakers
Mikael Johansson
Manager, Quantum Technologies, CSC, Espoo, Finland
In his role as Manager for Quantum Technologies at CSC, The Finnish IT Center for Science, Dr. Johansson oversees CSC’s participation in global initiatives related to quantum technologies, and in general explores and enables the uptake of quantum tech in RDI communities. He considers quantum-accelerated high-performance computing to be a central part of future supercomputing ecosystems. He spent twenty years in academia, studying and teaching quantum mechanical effects in (bio)chemistry. Dr Johansson holds an associate professorship in physical chemistry at the University of Helsinki, is director of the Finnish Quantum-Computing Infrastructure, co-founder of the Nordic-Estonian quantum computing infrastructure initiative NordIQuEst, and deputy director of the EuroHPC LUMI-Q quantum computing effort. He considers collaboration across the globe to be a highly synergistic endeavour, especially when it comes to quantum technologies.
Talk: ‘Building the future of high-performance computing by a synergistic inclusion of quantum acceleration’
Abstract: Supercomputers around the world are constantly crunching numbers for simulating a diverse set of simulations for research and development. Traditional high-performance computing tasks, such as computational fluid dynamics and solving electronic structure problems for life sciences, chemistry, and materials development now share the resources with an increasing adoption of artificial intelligence. With the emergence of quantum computers, the transition from purely classical computation towards hybrid quantum-accelerated HPC has begun. How do we combine HPC, AI, and quantum computing for maximum synergy and utility?
Sabina Leonelli
Professor of Philosophy of Technology, Technische Universität München, Germany
Prof. Sabina Leonelli is a leading philosopher of science specialising in data governance, AI, and emerging technologies like quantum computing. Currently Chair of Philosophy and History of Science and Technology at the Technical University of Munich, she co-directs the Ethical Data Initiative and TUM Public Science Lab. Her work critically examines how data-intensive practices shape knowledge production, particularly in the life sciences and digital research infrastructures. Leonelli advises major institutions including the European Commission and the Italian National Centre for Big Data, High Performance, and Quantum Computing on responsible data use and Open Science policy.
Talk: ‘Human Boundaries for High Performance Computing’
Concerns around how HPC may affect future research risk overshadowing questions around how HPC may serve current and future human and planetary needs. I reflect on this risk through consideration of the role that simulations – and particularly digital twins – play in the development and application of HPC, and the significance of interrogating the veridicity of such simulations and the extent to which their outcomes may be trusted to support society instead of creating new problems and strengthening existing inequities.
Torsten Bloth
HPC and AI Black Belt EMEA, Microsoft, Berlin, Germany
Torsten’s extensive background in High Performance Computing (HPC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) positions him as a key player in the technological advancement of these fields. His role at Microsoft, focusing on complex sales strategies for emerging technologies, showcases his ability to navigate and grow in rapidly evolving markets. With a career spanning over 20 years, including significant roles at IBM, Lenovo, and AWS, Torsten brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his current position. His expertise in scalable applications and cloud technologies is crucial for developing solutions that meet the demanding computational needs of diverse industries, from automotive to public sector research and development.
Talk: Accelerating Discovery: High Performance Computing for the Next Generation of Research
High Performance Computing (HPC) has long been the foundation of breakthrough research. As scientific challenges grow in complexity and urgency, traditional infrastructures are no longer sufficient. Cloud-based HPC offers a scalable, agile, and collaborative platform that empowers researchers to innovate without limits. In this keynote, we will explore how Microsoft Azure is advancing the future of research with high-performance and accelerated computing in the cloud. From cutting-edge simulations and AI integration to preparing for a quantum-enabled future, learn how researchers worldwide are achieving faster insights, greater collaboration, and transformative impact with Azure HPC.
Is this session inconvenient for your timezone? Register for the partner session taking place at 04:00-06:30 UTC on June 5th.
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