Quantum computing offers an enormous potential to solve difficult problems, but harvesting this power is hindered by the gap between application-level quantum algorithms and the complex limitations of quantum hardware. This gap forces quantum engineers to “fight the machine”, rather than to efficiently produce high-quality software, thus limiting the deployment of quantum computing to solve urgent problems such as faster drug discovery or optimal processes for green logistics.

In order to boost the deployment of quantum computing we propose to radically simplify the production of effective quantum software. This requires design automation techniques that enable the synthesis of high-level programs, tailored to specific application domains. These quantum programs need to be compiled to low-level quantum circuits, highly optimized to specific hardware. To assess the correctness and performance of quantum programs at design time, we need to support quantum engineers with proper tools for simulation and verification.