Enhancing Optimization Workflows with Quantum Computers Workshop

In the rapidly evolving landscape of computational problem-solving, hybrid quantum-classical approaches are emerging as a powerful frontier for tackling complex optimization challenges. This workshop bridges theoretical concepts with practical implementation, offering participants a comprehensive journey into the cutting-edge world of quantum computing applications.

This workshop is designed for researchers, engineers, and technologists eager to understand the fundamental principles of hybrid quantum-classical computing and explore state-of-the-art algorithms for optimization.

Theoretical Foundation: Deep dive into quantum computing applications with a focus on optimization problems
Industry Perspective: Explore potential use cases and real-world applications across various sectors

COURSE PREREQUISITES

Familiarity with Quantum computing basics (e.g., qubits, gates as qubit state transformations, basic circuits as sequences of gates) and Python programming.

Workshop Event Details

Date: Friday, August 22, 2025
Time: 9 AM to 5 PM
Learning Format: In-Person
Location: Stanford University Main Campus
Credential: Certificate of Completion
Tuition: $850.00 (Affiliates)
$850.00 (ICME Nonprofit Collaborators)
$1350.00 (Non-Affiliates)

Register Here (Closes Friday, August 8th)

Limited enrollment to 20 people. A 10% discount will be applied to groups of 5 or more from the same company. For any questions, please contact Tanya Schornack, Program Manager of Affiliates & Career Services at ICME.

WORKSHOP INSTRUCTOR

Willie Aboumrad, PhD
Senior Quantum Applications Scientist, IonQ & ICME Alum

Willie Aboumrad is a Senior Quantum Applications Scientist at IonQ and an Adjunct Lecturer at Stanford University, where he specializes in quantum computing and computational mathematics. He earned his PhD in Computational Mathematics from Stanford in 2022, focusing on the mathematical foundations of Topological Quantum Computing under Prof. Dan Bump. At IonQ, Willie applies and develops cutting‑edge quantum algorithms to real‑world applications, bridging theory and practical implementation. On the academic front, he has taught and developed courses on topics such as scientific computing, optimization, calculus, and the mathematics of topological quantum computing. Willie also contributes to open‑source software—most notably enhancing SageMath with modules for modeling anyon systems and fusion rings in support of topological quantum computation.

WORKSHOP OUTLINE

Introduction
- Quantum and hybrid computing, present and future
- Hardware landscape and roadmap
- Introduction to hybrid quantum-classical algorithms
- Search for quantum utility: faster, better, more (energy) efficient
Linear systems via Harrow–Hassidim–Lloyd (HHL) algorithm
Combinatorial optimization via Hamiltonian energy minimization
Hands-on Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE)
Enhancements (advanced topics may include any of the following)
- Solving generic quadratic programs with constraints
- Leveraging gradient-based methods for loss function minimization
- Beyond classical optimizers as parameter-update rules
- Compression schemes: more variables per qubit
- Decomposition schemes
Quantum consult: industry use case discussion
- Adapting hybrid technologies to industry-grade problems with high-impact
- Telecommunications: Quantum cryptography and secure communications
- Finance: Quantum algorithms for option pricing and risk analysis
- Pharmaceuticals: Drug discovery and molecular modeling

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why is registration limited? To enhance individual engagement and hands-on learning, our workshop is held in person with a limited number of participants giving priority to ICME affiliate members.
How do I know if my company is an ICME affiliate? Click the link to learn if your company is an ICME affiliate: https://icme.stanford.edu/Affiliate-Program
How do I pay for the workshop? After registering, you will receive an email asking for your payment.
Do you offer group discounts? We offer a 10% group discount if an organization registers at least five people. For more information, please contact Tanya Schornack at tschorna@stanford.edu.
When will I receive my certificate? Expect to receive it within one week after the workshop concludes.
What is the refund policy? Refunds are processed on a case-by-case basis. For credit card payments, a 2.9% fee will be deducted from the total amount. To request a refund, please contact ICME at icme-contact@stanford.edu. ICME reserves the right to decline refund requests.
Do I need to bring my own computer to the workshop? Yes, you will need to bring your own computer with a full charge, as outlets are limited. We'll send additional notifications closer to the event regarding accessing class materials and a website.
Will lunch be provided during the workshop? Lunch will be provided for all participants during the workshop. If you have any dietary requirements, please let us know.
Where will the workshop be held? The workshop is scheduled to take place on the Stanford main campus. Detailed information will be sent to you after registration.
Where should I park? Visitor parking is available in designated Stanford campus areas. All visitor parking payments are contactless and managed through ParkMobile. Detailed information on the nearest parking lots will be sent to you after registration. Click here to purchase visitor parking.

COURSE CANCELLATIONS