Dutch Scientist Builds Revolutionary Quantum Simulator to Control Individual Atoms
Eindhoven, Tuesday, 12 May 2026.
Rianne Lous at Eindhoven University has constructed a groundbreaking quantum simulator that precisely manipulates atomic particles, transforming abstract quantum physics into tangible experimentation. Her device, called SIntAQS, controls how atoms interact by adjusting distances between them—essentially providing a ‘knob’ to tune atomic behavior. This breakthrough positions the Netherlands at quantum technology’s forefront despite a €615 million government investment revealing security vulnerabilities.
The SIntAQS Revolution: From Abstract Theory to Tangible Control
Rianne Lous, an assistant professor at Eindhoven University of Technology’s Department of Applied Physics and Science Education, has developed a quantum simulator called SIntAQS (Sensing Interactions in Atomic Quantum Systems) that measures and controls atomic interactions with unprecedented precision [1]. The device allows researchers to observe how atoms attract or repel each other, absorb and release energy, and become entangled—fundamental quantum behaviors that were previously difficult to manipulate directly [1]. Lous describes her work with characteristic enthusiasm: “Atoms are amazing. They’re the building blocks of our world, and here in our lab, we can actually play with them” [1]. The simulator represents a significant advancement in quantum computing technology, as it transforms theoretical quantum physics concepts into practical, hands-on experimentation [1].
Technical Innovation and Practical Applications
SIntAQS operates by allowing Lous and her team to control atomic interactions using what she describes as a “figurative knob” to alter the distance between atoms, making their attraction stronger or weaker as needed [1]. This level of control represents a crucial breakthrough because, as Lous explains, “The more you master your system, the more you can steer the atoms as you wish” [1]. The simulator began construction in summer 2022, with Lous starting the project without a dedicated lab space until six months after her first PhD student began work [1]. Eight students and two PhD candidates have contributed to SIntAQS’s development, demonstrating the collaborative nature of this quantum technology advancement [1]. Currently, Lous acknowledges the system is still in development, noting that “Right now, the simulator is in a stubborn toddler phase” [1].
Netherlands’ Quantum Technology Leadership and Challenges
The Netherlands has positioned itself as a global leader in quantum technology through substantial government investment, allocating €615 million to build a world-class quantum technology ecosystem through the Quantum Delta NL program since 2021 [2]. This investment is projected to create between 8,000 and 18,000 jobs in the Netherlands by 2040, with potential economic value ranging from €1.5 billion to €2.5 billion [2]. Lous’s work contributes to a broader quantum computing initiative at TU/e, including the large-scale Rydberg Atom Quantum Computing project led by Professor Servaas Kokkelmans, which aims to build a quantum computer connected to TNO’s public cloud quantum computing platform, Quantum Inspire [1]. The goal is to make quantum computing accessible to everyone for programming and to model protein interactions for medical applications [1].
Security Vulnerabilities Despite Technological Progress
Despite the Netherlands’ quantum technology leadership, the country faces significant challenges in quantum security implementation. A February 4, 2026 report by the Netherlands Court of Audit surveyed 63 Dutch government organizations and found that 71% had not begun preparations to defend against quantum threats, with only 6% incorporating quantum threats into their risk management frameworks [2]. As of May 10, 2026, only 15 Dutch government organizations had opened dialogue with suppliers about quantum-safe products, and most institutions lack designated executives responsible for quantum security [2]. The Dutch intelligence service AIVD warned on December 3, 2024, that Q-Day—when quantum computers could crack current asymmetric encryption—could arrive as early as 2030, giving organizations less than four years to complete complex migrations to quantum-safe systems [2]. This timeline creates urgency for the Netherlands to address what the Court of Audit identifies as three main obstacles: lack of technical capacity, shortage of expertise, and absence of urgency [2].