Meet H2FUTURE Associate Professor Matti Silveri: "Quantum computing is a key to solving complex sustainability challenges"
We sat down with Matti Silveri, a theoretical physicist specializing in quantum computing, information, and superconducting qubits. Leading a team of three postdoctoral and six doctoral researchers at the Nano and Molecular Systems Research Unit, University of Oulu, Silveri is exploring how next-generation computational methods can advance materials science. What does he inspire to do with his research?
Associate Professor Matti Silveri's research team within H2FUTURE research programme is focused on improving variational quantum algorithms for the use of hydrogen research.
“Our research team is interested in improving variational quantum algorithms for small molecule or compound modelling, creating effective computational workflows between classical and quantum computations, and developing effective error mitigation strategies form them.”
As quantum computing rapidly evolves, there is a growing need for advanced algorithms, software, and real-world applications. Silveri´s groups´s work is fundamental research with long-term application perspectives.
"We believe that contributing to the development of next-generation computational methods and tools will benefit hydrogen and sustainable energy technologies in the future, e.g., in the form of improved materials modelling and optimization of chemical processes," Silveri says.
Next-generation computational methods are key to solving complex sustainability challenges
Next-generation computations are essential for developing sustainable materials and technological solutions for climate change mitigation or increasing understanding of disease development. Via improved computational solutions to demanding mathematical problems, quantum computing can streamline logistics and industrial processes, and lead to innovations in energy storage and conversion.
“By improving computational tools, we aim to advance materials modelling and optimize chemical processes—both crucial for the future of hydrogen and sustainable energy technologies," he adds.
In his new position, Silveri is aiming to become a versatile and balanced academic leader who drives the quantum computing expertise forward at the University of Oulu.
"I am looking forward to building and consolidating a new research direction and team at Oulu and Finland, educating the next generation of quantum computing experts, and helping to expand quantum technology research at Oulu," he shares.
With big personal goals, there needs to be a balance to life; outside of his research, Silveri enjoys skiing all year long, cross-country skiing in winters, and roller skiing in summers.
Silveri´s long-term vision for his research group is to become one of the leading research groups in Finland in utilizing quantum computing resources, develop better and more effective quantum algorithms for materials science and modelling, and build active international collaboration connection.
Curious research approcahes help academia and industry work together to advance hydrogen research
When asked about how academia and industry can be helped to working together fof hydrogen research, Silveri says:
"I see that good results will be achieved through curious research approaches and by investing in finding the best industry-academia research overlaps and matches," Silveri notes.
For early-career researchers interested in hydrogen research, Silveri advises staying open and curious:
"My advice would be to have an interest in diverse research topics, continuous improvement on teamwork skills, and communication," he concludes.