UiB launches NOK 80 million quantum center – aims for international leadership
- 6. mai
- 3 min lesing
The University of Bergen (UiB) is establishing UiB Quantum – a new Center for Quantum Technology in Bergen – with a total funding framework of NOK 80 million over five years. The initiative is a joint effort with the Trond Mohn Research Foundation and represents a strategic move into one of the world’s most competitive and fast-growing technology fields.
The center will commence operations on August 1, 2026, with an official opening scheduled for September 15. Professor Pinar Heggernes has been appointed director.
Bringing together leading research environments
UiB Quantum builds on strong academic environments at the Department of Physics and Technology and the Department of Informatics, aiming to strengthen collaboration across disciplines and accelerate the development of quantum technologies with real-world impact.
“UiB has strong capabilities in several areas of quantum technology, particularly in applied research. With UiB Quantum, we are taking a clear and important position in a field that will have major significance going forward,” says UiB Rector Margareth Hagen.
The center will also involve expertise from mathematics, chemistry, geosciences and medicine, and collaborate closely with clinical environments at Haukeland University Hospital, industry partners, defense and security actors, and leading international research institutions.
Public–private partnership
The funding model combines contributions from UiB and the Trond Mohn Research Foundation, with the latter’s support contingent on substantial co-investment from the university.
“Quantum technology is strategically important and has the potential for long-term impact across multiple sectors. We are proud to support UiB in strengthening existing expertise and fostering closer interdisciplinary collaboration,” says Nicholas Knag Nunn, CEO of the foundation.
Dean Gunn Mangerud at the Faculty of Science and Technology highlights that the funding is based on a strong international peer review.
Part of a national push
The initiative aligns with broader national efforts to advance quantum technology. The Norwegian government has identified the field as strategically important and plans to invest more than NOK 1 billion over the next five years, with a national strategy expected in 2026.
Minister of Research and Higher Education Sigrunn Aasland welcomes the initiative:
“It is highly encouraging to see UiB investing in emerging technologies and establishing both an academic program and a research center in quantum technology. The contribution from the Trond Mohn Research Foundation demonstrates the impact of private funding in research.”
Targeting real-world applications
Quantum technology leverages the fundamental building blocks of nature and has the potential to drive breakthroughs across healthcare, navigation, security, and energy.
Key focus areas for UiB Quantum include:
Early cancer detection using quantum sensors capable of identifying minute quantities of biomarkers in blood
GPS-independent navigation, critical for aviation, maritime operations, and subsea environments
Optimization of shipping, transport, and energy systems
Digital security, including post-quantum cryptography and quantum communication
Investing in education and skills
Alongside the center, UiB will launch a new five-year integrated Master of Science in Engineering program in quantum technology in autumn 2026, welcoming its first cohort of students as the center opens.
The university also plans to develop continuing and executive education offerings to make quantum technology more accessible to professionals.
With UiB Quantum, the university strengthens its broader science and technology initiative, UiB Realfaghøyden, and aims to position Bergen as a visible and competitive player in the national and international quantum landscape.
