MUNI hosted CaLiForNIA Doctoral Network kick-off conference to advance quantum computing

The kick-off conference took place in Brno in January 2025. This event marked the launch of a dynamic network of 11 supervisors and 11 doctoral candidates from whole word, each contributing to research at the interface of classical geometry, quantum mechanics, and machine learning.

Prof. Rita Fioresi, the project coordinator from University of Bologna, emphasized the collaborative nature of the event: “This is a training conference. Each supervisor delivers an hour-long lecture, introducing the key topics of their research. This allows students to understand what everyone is working on and fosters collaboration. Supervisors and students interact, building connections that will shape future projects. The project underscored the critical role of personal meetings in research and innovation. Face-to-face interactions allow participants to exchange ideas dynamically. Discussions in real-time spark creativity and lead to breakthroughs that often don’t emerge in virtual settings. Personal interactions strengthen relationships, creating a foundation for long-term partnerships. Conversations enable immediate feedback and nuanced understanding, making research approaches more effective. This is just the beginning—more events will follow and we are happy to meet together again,” Fioresi concluded

Uniting Classical Geometry with Quantum Innovation

The role of Masaryk University in the project is in providing education in the classical mathematical concepts: The network bridges classical Cartan geometry and Lie theory—core 19th-century mathematical disciplines—with cutting-edge fields like quantum computing, non-commutative geometry, and geometric deep learning. As Jan Slovák, the main coordinator at Masaryk University, highlighted: “The project unites classical geometric analysis with modern computational priorities like quantum computing and machine learning, aligning perfectly with Horizon Europe’s objectives. Complex concepts, such as those in quantum computing and Cartan geometry, are easier to convey and grasp during in-person sessions. Networking opens doors to opportunities, collaborations, and insights that can accelerate personal and collective growth. By bringing together brilliant minds under one roof, CaLiForNIA sets the stage for a vibrant, collaborative community that thrives on shared knowledge and mutual support.”

Within the project, two of the doctoral positions are at MUNI and the supervisors Katharina Neusser and Jan Slovák are in charge of the fundamental Work Package I, Cartan and Lie theory, i.e., we are responsible for the first two syllabi in the project acronym. All the students are supposed to spend 12 months at other nodes in the network, in particular with their co-supervisors. For the Brno students, they are in Auckland, New Zealand, and California, US.