22 December 2025 Hanke/Holzleitner/Harasek: "Study confirms Austria's top ranking in quantum research" International study by European Patent Office and OECD highlights Austria's role in quantum technology – Austria among 18 OECD countries with quantum strategy

In the global race for quantum technologies, Austria holds a strong position. This is confirmed by a recent study from the European Patent Office (EPO) and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The analysis of more than 31,700 patent families worldwide showcases the domestic innovation potential in this field of the future, marking Austria as one of 18 OECD countries with a comprehensive national quantum strategy.

Quantum technologies are considered a key technology of the 21st century – with applications in encrypted communication, high-performance computing, precision sensing, as well as pharmaceuticals and materials science. The global study shows rapid growth: The number of international patent families has quintupled in the last ten years, with quantum computers being the most dynamic segment.

Best Practice from Austria

The study highlights the initiative Quantum Science Austria (quantA) as best practice: It aims to establish an interdisciplinary excellence cluster at the University of Innsbruck by 2029, with further research projects in Vienna, Linz, and Klosterneuburg. 

“Quantum technology is one of the most promising fields of innovation of our times and is leading increasingly to commercial applications. In Austria, we have succeeded in establishing a highly innovative ecosystem that connects university basic research with applied research and the development of market-ready products. The study by the European Patent Office is a wonderful recognition of this and confirms the path we have taken. With the key technology initiative from my ministry, we continue consistently and invest strategically to expand Austria's position as a quantum nation,” emphasizes Innovation Minister Peter Hanke. 

Science Minister Eva-Maria Holzleitner is also pleased with the study's outcome: “Austria is among the international leaders in quantum technologies. This is impressively confirmed by the study from EPO and OECD. This strong position is the result of a consistent quantum strategy, excellent basic research, and targeted research funding. With initiatives like Quantum Science Austria, we strengthen our universities and research institutions sustainably, creating an ecosystem where scientific curiosity can lead to innovation, societal benefit, and progress.” 

Mapping the Quantum Ecosystem

The structure of the Austrian quantum ecosystem shows a strong connection between academic basic research and innovative spin-offs: Of eleven Austrian research units with European quantum patents, four are non-university research institutions, four are universities or universities of applied sciences, and three are companies – two of which are spin-offs of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW).

According to the study, a major role in quantum research is played by the University of Innsbruck among others, including the Technical University (TU) Vienna, the University of Vienna, the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) in Klosterneuburg, as well as Joanneum Research in Graz.

A prime example of successful knowledge transfer is Alpine Quantum Technologies (AQT) from Innsbruck, a spin-off from the ÖAW and the University of Innsbruck, which is gaining international attention. In total, ÖAW has produced three spin-offs in the quantum sector, demonstrating the successful transfer of basic research into market-relevant technologies. Xephor Solutions from Purkersdorf is also showcasing the growing importance of Austria as a business location in this field with its innovative company possessing a European quantum patent.

Finale for the International Year of Quantum Research 

“As the Austrian Patent Office, we are delighted that the domestic research landscape is so well positioned in this key technology,” says Stefan Harasek, President of the Austrian Patent Office. “The close interconnection of excellent basic research and innovative spin-offs creates optimal conditions to benefit from developments in this promising field.”