Deadline: August 31, 2025
Applications are open for the UNESCO Quantum Course for Women Scientists in Africa 2025. Quantum science and technologies are rapidly shaping the future of science, security, economy and society. Yet women, especially those from the Global South, remain underrepresented in this critical field. To address this gap, UNESCO, in collaboration with leading quantum educators, is launching an open-access introductory course on quantum computing, paired with a selective training and mentorship programme for women PhD students in Africa.
Led by Dr. Maria Longobardi from the University of Basel and Dr. James Wootton from Moth Quantique, this free online course offers a step-by-step introduction to the fundamentals of quantum computation.
Through a series of lecture videos created by Dr. James Wootton while at IBM Quantum, the course explores key concepts such as single and multi-qubit systems, quantum circuits, and foundational algorithms like Shor’s and Grover’s. Based on the open-source textbook Learn Quantum Computation using Qiskit, the course is open to all and taught in English.
Benefits
- Participants who complete at least six sessions will receive a certificate, with the top three students awarded a dedicated training opportunity.
Eligibility
- Open to female PhD students from Africa in STEM fields;
- Must be familiar with linear algebra.
Application
The deadline for application is August 31, 2025. Candidates will be selected based on their CV and a short motivation letter, with priority given to those who would most benefit from foundational quantum training.
For more information, visit UNESCO Quantum Course.
