UK-based Universal Quantum has joined The Open Quantum Institute to apply quantum computing to global health challenges, with its first use case focusing on endometriosis research. The collaboration aims to explore how quantum simulations can accelerate discovery of non-hormonal, shelf-stable therapeutics for the condition affecting 10% of women globally.
Universal Quantum will work with Open Quantum Institute collaborators to investigate high-impact applications of quantum computing across healthcare, drug design, and climate science. The endometriosis project specifically targets development of treatments for underserved populations in rural or economically developing regions.
The Open Quantum Institute was launched by the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator in collaboration with the UN’s International Telecommunication Union, CERN, and other international bodies. The institute serves as a platform to explore quantum use cases with global public benefit, aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
“Women’s health has been overlooked for far too long, and conditions like endometriosis continue to leave millions without answers or effective treatment,” said Lucy Robson, Quantum Algorithm Scientist at Universal Quantum. “Quantum computing has the potential to change things, but only if we apply it with purpose.”
Universal Quantum will collaborate with experts in biomedicine, computational chemistry, and women’s health to simulate bio-molecular systems on quantum processors. The goal is to better integrate quantum computing insights into drug discovery workflows for endometriosis treatments.
The company is building utility-scale quantum computers based on ion-trap technology, with systems designed to scale to millions of qubits. Universal Quantum positions itself as one of the few European players pursuing a fully industrialized path to large-scale quantum computing.
“This is a complex challenge that won’t be solved by quantum computing alone,” said Dr Sebastian Weidt, CEO and co-founder of Universal Quantum. “We’re grateful to OQI and our collaborators for contributing essential domain knowledge. As we build the infrastructure for powerful quantum machines, we believe it’s equally important to work together to apply those systems in ways that advance science, society and shared prosperity.”
The partnership reflects Universal Quantum’s commitment to ensuring quantum technology is developed and deployed responsibly. The company joins a growing list of academic, industry, and institutional partners working within the Open Quantum Institute framework to address global challenges through quantum computing applications.
