– The test station is built using a hardware-based single-qubit emulator – explains Piotr Sobotka, PhD. – These qubits can be networked, as each emulator communicates via a dedicated protocol. – The system utilises massively parallel, programmable FPGA modules. Carefully designed architecture enables operation under conditions similar to real quantum qubits. Each unit is equipped with a display that visualizes the current quantum state on a Bloch sphere.

One demonstrable application of the QUBIT platform is a quantum machine learning algorithm known as the reupload classifier. This model enables basic data classification using a single qubit. For example, the setup can classify handwritten digits – specifically 0 and 1 – using quantum encoding.

– The control software allows users to draw digits, shrink the image, and reduce it using PCA to obtain three values that can be encoded in a single qubit – explains Sobotka, PhD. – As a result, a pre-trained quantum circuit is activated – the system then measures the qubit to determine the probability that the image shows a 0 or a 1. With two qubits available per workstation, it is also possible to demonstrate BB84 – a quantum key distribution (QKD) algorithm. Users can simulate key exchange by choosing roles (sender or receiver), defining the number of qubits, and generating random bit pairs and their corresponding quantum states. These are encoded on the workstation qubits, and the receiver performs measurements using randomly selected Z or X bases, mimicking the process of secure quantum communication.

Currently, up to eight emulators can be connected within a single Ethernet subnet, with the possibility of scaling further.

– By linking emulated qubits, we can construct more advanced quantum circuits and explore the probability distributions of their possible states – explains Jacek Długopolski, PhD, from AGH University of Krakow, author of the QUBIT system concept.

– With QUBIT, students can design quantum gates and more complex configurations involving one or multiple qubit emulators – adds Dr. Sobotka. – The ability to connect and manipulate qubits enables hands-on multi-qubit experiments.

Quantum workstation

From theory to application

Students have already begun working with the system. Among them are Aleksander Mazur, an MSc student, and Konrad Łącki, currently completing his BSc thesis – both from the Faculty of Physics at WUT, under the academic supervision of Sobotka, PhD.

– My fascination with quantum physics started with theory, but I wanted to go deeper – says Aleksander. – My thesis focuses on laser control in an ion trap, one of the infrastructures for building quantum computers. Starting experiments required mastering many technical concepts – it’s a truly advanced area that bridges multiple branches of physics.

Konrad Łącki, who is working on laser control for his BSc thesis, shares a similar view:

– I’ve been interested in quantum technologies for several years, especially their practical applications – adds Konrad. – A hundred years ago, working with single atoms was unimaginable. Now, we not only theorize but actually build systems using ions as qubits. Even if research takes us in unexpected directions, I believe incredible discoveries will emerge that benefit us all.

Quantum technologies are also explored by members of the CAMAC Student Research Group, who showcased the QUBIT infrastructure during this year’s Open Day at WUT’s Faculty of Physics.

CAMAC Student Research Group – Tomasz Bukowiecki and Monika Marek – at the QUBIT workstation during the 2025 Open Day

Quantum path: from education to innovation

– This setup isn’t just a showpiece – it’s a functional bridge connecting theory, experimentation, and real-world applications – says Marcin Sadowski, President of SONOVERO R&D and founder of AIQLAB. – Traditional education in quantum technologies often relies on simulators. While useful, they omit the physical dimensions of actual quantum systems – and that’s where our platform steps in.

He emphasizes that real-world hardware in education offers students much more: direct contact with cutting-edge technology, hands-on experience in quantum programming, a better understanding of quantum connectivity, and insight into how AI can support the development of quantum technologies.

– Incorporating such setups into university curricula fills a vital educational gap and enables students to test theory in practice – especially now, as the first physical quantum computers are beginning to appear in Poland and Europe – adds Sadowski. – This approach not only enriches learning, but also makes classes more engaging, inspiring, and relevant to real-world science. Our aim is to go beyond theoretical knowledge and enable true innovation.