#Japan #Sendai #Tohoku University #Q&A Co. #Quantum Annealing

Q&A Co. and Tohoku University Partner for Quantum Research

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Q&A Co., Ltd., a company specializing in contact center operations, has partnered with Tohoku University to commence innovative research leveraging quantum annealing technology. This initiative, led by the university's Ozeki Laboratory, aims to optimize recruitment processes through the estimation and evaluation of hiring metrics.

Background and Objective

Q&A Co., which is based in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, has continuously strived to tackle local community challenges through its contact center business. This partnership stems from a special lecture series titled "Practical Quantum Solution Creation" offered by Tohoku University. It marks a significant step as Q&A becomes the first private enterprise to apply quantum annealing technology within the recruitment sector. The collaboration seeks to explore new solutions to the talent acquisition issues faced by regional businesses.

Details of the Initiative

The research will focus on analyzing optimization problems related to recruitment activities using quantum annealing technology. The objectives include:

• - Combining Optimization Problems: Analyze the complexities of recruitment optimization through quantum annealing methods.
• - Expanding Recruitment Focus: Extend the analysis beyond just new graduate hiring to include mid-career recruitment, thereby facilitating the identification of immediate talent.
• - Long-Term Success Potential: The research will consider candidate potential post-hire, aiming to identify individuals who can thrive in their roles over the long term.

Through this collaborative effort, Q&A Co. aspires to establish a model for industry-academia collaboration deeply connected to the community. The goal is to foster sustainable growth for local businesses while invigorating the regional economy. The company pledges to continue leveraging ICT insights to generate new value in the digital landscape.

Overview of the Research

• - Research Theme: Estimating and Evaluating Recruitment Metrics Using Quantum Annealing
• - Purpose of the Research: Achieve hiring practices that consider the needs of both employers and applicants by utilizing quantum annealing technology for optimization.
• - Research Structure:

- Researchers: Ozeki Laboratory at Tohoku University (analysis and evaluation utilizing quantum annealing)
- Research Collaborators: Q&A Co., Ltd. (primarily providing data and information)

• - Research Duration: December 2025 - March 2026

As the research progresses, Q&A looks forward to establishing a sustainable partnership with Tohoku University that significantly contributes to the local workforce and community development. This initiative represents a pivotal step towards integrating advanced quantum solutions in practical applications.