This aims to increase awareness of and support for quantum software research.

Quantum computers have the potential to solve important problems much faster than their classical predecessors, with applications ranging from the solution of hard optimisation problems to the simulation of complex molecules.

Very significant investments have been made across Europe and elsewhere in quantum technologies, not least the recent billion-euro European Flagship Programme in Quantum Technologies.

Current progress in the field of quantum computer hardware makes it likely that the first quantum computers that can outperform classical ones will be available in just a few years.

But just as classical computers are meaningless pieces of hardware without appropriate software, quantum computers need quantum software to function, including algorithms, architectures and applications.

Dr Montanaro, from the University of Bristol’s School of Mathematics and the Bristol Quantum Information Institute, said: “The goal of the Quantum Software Manifesto is to stress the importance of quantum software; highlight the need for quantum hardware and software developers to work together; and underline the importance of industry involvement in the development of new algorithms and related tasks.”

Over 150 supporters from academia, industry and elsewhere have already endorsed the manifesto.