PBL
IBM Qiskit Project
Applied Quantum Simulation
Design and simulate practical quantum circuits for chemistry, AI, and error correction using real-world tools like IBM Qiskit and variational methods.
Project
IBM Qiskit Project
Location
Online
Duration
8 Weeks
Upcoming Sessions
Feb. 02 - Mar. 29, 2026
Outcomes
Learn stabilizer codes for quantum error correction
Explore variational models in finance and chemistry
Implement quantum neural networks for small datasets
Apply VQE algorithms for molecule simulation
Understand quantum circuits and variational solvers
You Will Get
Industry Guidance
Work directly with our project leads—experts and top researchers—who bring their real-world insights and expertise straight to your learning experience.
Research Experience
Collaborate with teammates and the project lead in a multi-week project to pursue novel questions in your research field.
Peer Networks
Engage with our PBL participants from all over the world. Collaborate with new peers and learn about their own research endeavours.
.png)
A Strong Portfolio
Put your best foot forward in the PBL with a standout project and receive a PBL Evaluation Report that can be used as a recommendation letter for employers and grad schools.
Expert Guidance
Get personalized feedback to grow your research and innovation skills.
Deliverables
Real projects, lasting connections, and new opportunities beyond your program.
Project Deliverables
The final presentation of your 8 weeks could be a poster, written report, or a slide deck, all of which can be expanded on.
Research Extension
Utilize up to 5 additional meeting times with the project lead after the project’s conclusion to build your work out for publication or conference presentation.
Industry Network
Meet peers in your projects and participate in a global talent community both online and in-person.
Industry Application
IBM Qiskit is a leading platform for quantum computing research and development, offering an open-source SDK for working with quantum circuits, simulators, and real quantum hardware. This PBL aligns directly with IBM Qiskit’s mission to advance practical quantum computing through simulation, variational algorithms, and fault-tolerant design. By learning to build and evaluate quantum circuits, students gain hands-on skills used in industry R&D and applied quantum science.
Popular Industry Positions
Technical Consultant (Quantum Tech)
Applies quantum models to solve problems in finance, chemistry, and logistics.
Research Scientist (Quantum)
Designs and evaluates quantum architectures and error correction methods.
Quantum Software Engineer
Develops quantum algorithms and tools using platforms like Qiskit.
Tracks
Track 1
Quantum Circuits as Quantum Solvers (Variational Quantum Chemistry)
Students will use variational quantum circuits to model quantum systems for chemical and materials simulations.
Learn quantum circuit design and information theory fundamentals
Explore variational algorithms for quantum chemistry problems
Simulate basic quantum systems like the harmonic oscillator or hydrogen molecule
Extend methods to multi-atom molecular simulations
Analyze results based on accuracy, convergence, and scalability
Track 2
Quantum Circuits in Discovery Mode (Quantum Neural Networks)
Students will implement quantum neural networks to solve machine learning and data modeling tasks.
Understand parameterized quantum circuits and their structure
Apply quantum machine learning to image classification or data generation
Compare classical vs. quantum approaches on small datasets
Evaluate performance under different input encoding schemes
Extend models to real-world contexts like finance or climate
Track 3
Suppressing the Noisy Chit-Chat (Quantum Error Correction)
Students will assess quantum error-correcting codes under realistic noise to ensure reliable computations.
Learn the foundation of stabilizer codes and QEC principles
Implement and test surface codes or concatenated codes
Simulate error behavior under hardware noise models
Compare code effectiveness with logical error rate metrics
Understand how QEC enables fault-tolerant quantum scaling
Track 4
All You Wanted, Beyond Faults (Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computation)
Students will design and benchmark logical operations for error-corrected qubits using fault-tolerant techniques.
Implement logical gates using transversal gates, lattice surgery, and magic state injection
Benchmark fault-tolerant circuit performance across various metrics
Simulate noise-resilient logic gate execution
Analyze fault tolerance vs. computation overhead
Explore potential for universal quantum computation
PBL Journey
Online PBL Projects meet once a week for 8 weeks, and follow the research project format. Participants will meet the project lead, learn the conventions of the field and familiarize themselves with the tracks, then spend the middle portion of their time collaborating to develop their research.
At the end, participants will present their final project and receive feedback, with the opportunity to extend their timeline and develop the project in greater depth.
.png)
Project Team
Our Academic Team plays a vital role in your PBL journey at Blended Learning. We are dedicated to enhancing your learning experience and ensuring your academic success. Our team consists of three distinct roles, each with a specific focus to support your Research Guidance, Project Progress, and Personal Growth.
Project Lead
Providing Industry and Research Guidance
Researcher in Quantum Computing, University of Oxford
His current research is currently at the University of Oxford in the Theory of Quantum Systems research group. His work focuses on quantum error correction, variational quantum algorithms, and optimizing physical operations in quantum hardware. Previously, he worked at planqc, a quantum computing startup in Munich, contributing to the development of neutral-atom quantum systems. He holds a Physics degree from Imperial College London, where he received the prestigious Callendar Prize for all-round academic excellence. His research bridges quantum theory with real-world applications in chemistry, finance, and machine learning.
Academic Advisor
Tracking Your Project Development
The Academic Advisor is dedicated to your project completion success. They manage the progress of your PBL, guiding team formation, facilitating group discussions, and resolving conflicts. Additionally, the Academic Advisor ensures team member contributions are on track and provides logistical support, including attendance tracking, hosting recitation sessions, managing research support requests, and conducting student evaluations at the end of the PBL.
From Our Students
"After a night spent debugging, I suddenly discovered the program running perfectly. In that triumphant moment, you realize your true capability and success. The exhaustion fades, replaced by the thrill of knowing your skills and persistence led to this achievement, reaffirming your potential."
Nicole Y.
National University of Singapore
B.S. Economics
FAQs
What is the learning format of a PBL?
All PBLs are offered in an 8-week online format that begins with an orientation followed by subject setup overview of the different tracks. The majority of the session time is dedicated to project development, with a final presentation at the culmination of the 8 weeks. Many PBLs are also offered bi-annually in an on-campus format that consists of daily in-person meetings.
How long does each PBL cohort last？
One round of the Online PBL cohort lasts 8 weeks, preceded bys a pre-PBL orientation week. Each On-Campus PBL usually has 8 in person meetings, with intensive classroom education and collaboration. This means the biggest difference between online and on-campus PBLs is time participants have in between meetings.
How can I be more academically prepared before the PBL starts?
Review the Blended Learning Insights sent by the Academic Advisor and familiarize yourself with the project topic and pre-learning materials. Ensure you have all necessary softwares and other resources needed for the PBL.
For each PBL cohort, will I work in teams? Are PBL team members self-selected or assigned?
Yes, you will work in teams for each round of the PBL Cohort. Each team has 3 to 6 participants, organized by the Academic Team. The Academic Advisor will organize groupings based on students' backgrounds, preferred track, and skills.
Can I work with the Project Lead on my project after the PBL ends?
Yes, with your AI + X Research Plan, you may request up to five PBL Research Extension meetings, where you work with the project lead to develop your project into a working manuscript. To schedule a PBL Research Extension meeting, talk to your Academic Advisor at the conclusion of your PBL.
What do I receive at the end of the PBL?
At the conclusion of the PBL cohort, you can request a PBL Evaluation Report which summarizes the PBL content, the hours you spent, the track you chose, and includes a recommendation letter from the Project Lead (for eligible participants who completed the project successfully).
Is attendance mandatory for PBL Live Sessions and Recitation Sessions?
Yes, attendance is mandatory for both PBL Live Sessions and Recitation Sessions. Participants with three or more unexcused absences forfeit their eligibility for a PBL Evaluation Report.
Do I need to have my camera on during online PBL Live Sessions?
Yes, you must have your camera on during online PBL Live Sessions. Participants with cameras off will be marked as absent. This is meant to encourage active engagement and participation in meetings.