Ion Hack 2026: eleQtron and JUNIQ Quantum Hackathon

Update – Event Reformulated and Rescheduled

The Ion Hack 2025: eleQtron & JUNIQ Quantum Hackathon has been reformulated and rescheduled to March 11-13, 2026.

Teams that submitted complete applications may carry their application forward to the rescheduled event or resubmit with a revised team composition when the new call opens.

For questions: training-juniq@fz-juelich.de

The Jülich Supercomputing Centre will host the Ion Hack 2026: eleQtron and JUNIQ Quantum Hackathon from March 11 to 13, 2026.
The Hackathon is jointly organized by the Jülich UNified Infrastructure for Quantum computing (JUNIQ) and the NRW-funded project Entwicklungspartnerschaft Ionenfallen-Quantencomputer (EPIQ), a collaboration between Forschungszentrum Jülich and the quantum start-up eleQtron from Siegen.

Quantum technologies are advancing at an unprecedented pace, and as quantum processors scale in size and complexity, the need for powerful simulation and optimisation techniques becomes increasingly vital. To drive innovation and collaboration in this field, we are excited to announce Ion Hack 2026 - a hackathon created in collaboration between eleQtron and Forschungszentrum Jülich. This event will bring together students, researchers, and industry experts to explore cutting-edge methods in Quantum Simulation and Optimisation, with a strong focus on real-world applications.

This year’s hackathon centres on developing and applying advanced tools for simulating complex quantum systems and optimising quantum algorithms and workflows. Participants will tackle challenges that span physics-inspired simulation techniques, algorithmic optimisation, and application-driven problem-solving across chemistry, materials science, logistics, and beyond. The hackathon provides a unique opportunity to contribute to emerging methodologies that enhance the utility and efficiency of quantum devices and hybrid quantum-classical systems.

Over three days, the hackathon will feature an interactive blend of lectures, hands-on sessions, and collaborative projects. Participants will learn from leading experts in quantum computing, gain practical experience, and network with peers and professionals across academia and industry. 

By joining this hackathon, participants will:

• Gain hands-on experience in quantum simulation and optimisation methods.
• Strengthen technical, analytical, and teamwork skills through collaborative problem-solving.
• Contribute to new application-driven approaches in quantum computing.
• Build connections within a growing global community of quantum technology innovators.

Who should apply?

• Anyone who has studied or is studying physics, mathematics, engineering or similar fields in STEM and beyond.
• Coding experience in python (knowledge of quantum packages such as qiskit or pennylane is a bonus)
• Interest in Quantum computing and understanding of the basics.

Registration

• To register for on-site participation applications must be submitted. To submit your application and to get further information, please see our registration page.

Awards

The winning team will receive a €5,000 prize, courtesy of eleQtron, recognizing the most outstanding and creative approach to the hackathon challenge.