Research article snippet

Hamzat Akande’s Pioneer Quantum Research Resonates with 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics

09 Oct 2025

Hamzat A. Akande, an alumnus of ICTP-East African Institute for Fundamental Research (ICTP-EAIFR), has co-authored a significant new study on quantum algorithms, published in Physical Review A on September 25, 2025.

The paper, titled “Variational quantum subspace construction via symmetry-preserving cost functions,” introduces a novel approach for efficiently targeting low-energy states in complex quantum systems — a longstanding challenge in quantum chemistry and condensed matter physics.

Akande and collaborators from Université de Bordeaux and Université de Montpellier propose an algorithm that optimizes quantum resources by preserving physical symmetries, reducing circuit depth, and lowering measurement demands.

This breakthrough is particularly timely, aligning closely with themes recognized in this year’s Nobel Prize in Physics, awarded for pioneering work in quantum science and quantum information. While the Nobel committee celebrated advances in controlling and measuring quantum states, Akande’s research pushes the frontier further by addressing how near-term quantum devices can be practically harnessed for real-world quantum simulations — a crucial step toward realizing the potential of quantum computing in material science and chemistry.

“This work exemplifies the kind of high-impact research ICTP-EAIFR aims see from the institute's alumni — linking theoretical innovation with global scientific priorities. We hope for more of these as this is the first of a kind from ICTP-EAIFR Alumni” said Dr. Catherine Meriaux, the director of the institute.

The paper marks an important contribution from an African researcher to the rapidly evolving field of quantum computation, showcasing how international collaboration and regional scientific excellence can drive forward the next generation of quantum technologies.

📄 Read the article: Phys. Rev. A 112, 032623 (2025)