Commissariat à l’énergie atomique atomique et aux énergies alternatives

The Commissariat à l’énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives (CEA) is one of Europe’s leading actors in quantum technologies, spanning quantum computing, quantum simulation, quantum sensing and enabling microelectronics. Building on decades of expertise in fundamental physics, advanced materials and large-scale scientific infrastructure, CEA plays a central role in structuring France’s and Europe’s quantum ecosystem.

A cornerstone for quantum computing infrastructure

CEA hosts and operates key national quantum infrastructures, notably at the Très Grand Centre de Calcul (TGCC), where hybrid quantum–HPC workflows are developed and deployed. TGCC provides a unique environment enabling the integration of quantum processors with high-performance computing resources, allowing researchers to benchmark, validate and scale quantum algorithms in realistic scientific and industrial use cases.

CEA has been instrumental in the deployment of advanced quantum processors within secure, sovereign infrastructures. Through national and European initiatives, CEA contributes to the evaluation, operation and scientific exploitation of quantum machines, supporting early users in domains such as materials science, chemistry, optimisation and simulation of complex physical systems. These activities position France among the very few countries operating quantum hardware within a large-scale national research computing centre.

From quantum hardware to hybrid algorithms and applications

Beyond infrastructure, CEA’s laboratories contribute across the full quantum value chain: qubit technologies (superconducting circuits, spin qubits and emerging platforms), cryogenic systems, control electronics, and advanced microelectronics integration. CEA’s cleanroom facilities and semiconductor expertise enable the co-design of quantum devices and control architectures, reinforcing Europe’s technological sovereignty.

On the software side, CEA develops quantum algorithms and hybrid quantum–classical approaches, leveraging its strong background in high-performance computing, numerical simulation and optimisation. Particular emphasis is placed on quantum and quantum-inspired algorithms for scientific computing, including partial differential equations, many-body physics and industrial optimisation problems.

Through major national programmes and EuroHPC and European Quantum Flagship initiatives, CEA actively contributes to building a competitive and sovereign European quantum ecosystem, bridging fundamental research, technology development and industrial deployment.