#IonHack 2026 Ion Hack 2026 - Quantum Hackathon

From March 11 to 13, 2026, eleQtron, together with the Jülich Supercomputing Centre (JSC) and the Jülich UNified Infrastructure for Quantum Computing (JUNIQ), invites participants to Ion Hack 2026 in Jülich.

The hackathon takes place within the framework of the NRW-funded project EPIQ (Entwicklungspartnerschaft Ionenfallen-Quantencomputer), a collaboration between Forschungszentrum Jülich and eleQtron.

Thinking quantum computing in practice – from simulation to optimisation

Quantum processors are advancing at an unprecedented pace – with increasing qubit numbers and growing system complexity. As a result, a central question is becoming ever more relevant:

How can real quantum systems be efficiently simulated, optimised, and translated into practical applications?

This is exactly where Ion Hack 2026 comes in. The hackathon brings together students, researchers, and industry experts to jointly explore modern methods in quantum simulation and optimisation, with a strong focus on real-world relevance.

Key focus areas include:

• Simulation of complex quantum systems
• Optimisation of quantum algorithms and hybrid workflows
• Application-driven challenges from chemistry, materials science, logistics, and industry

Over three intensive days, participants can expect a dynamic mix of:

• Expert talks by leading specialists from research and industry
• Hands-on sessions using state-of-the-art tools and frameworks
• Collaborative team projects addressing concrete challenges in simulation and optimisation

The hackathon offers the opportunity to test new approaches, gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge quantum hardware and software infrastructure, and become part of the growing European quantum community.

Why join?

Participants of Ion Hack 2026 will benefit from:

• Hands-on experience in quantum simulation and optimisation
• Interdisciplinary teamwork on real-world problem statements
• Direct exchange with experts from eleQtron and Forschungszentrum Jülich
• Exclusive insights into the JUNIQ quantum computing infrastructure
  
  

Awards & insights

The winning team will receive a €5,000 prize, sponsored by eleQtron, for the most convincing and innovative solution.

All participants will also have the opportunity to visit JUNIQ’s quantum computing facilities and expand their professional network.

Challenges & evaluation

The specific challenges and judging criteria will be announced soon.
Updates will be shared via our website and social media channels.

Who should apply?

• Students and graduates in physics, mathematics, engineering, computer science, or related fields
• Programming experience in Python (knowledge of tools such as Qiskit or PennyLane is a plus)
• Basic interest in and understanding of quantum computing

Team setup

• Participation in teams of 3–5 people
• Each participant must register individually via the application form
• Up to 8 teams will be selected, depending on the number of applications

Don’t have a team yet? No problem.

Individual applications are welcome. Where possible, we will support team formation or provide an exchange platform. However, team placement cannot be guaranteed.

Registration deadline: January, 23, 2026!