Fichtenholtz-Waals Research Institute
Est. 2026  ยท  Independent Research Institute

Quantum computing
and artificial intelligence,
made usable.

An independent research institute at the intersection of quantum hardware, classical AI, advanced mathematics, and symbolic systems, building practical tools and rigorous pedagogy for the next generation of builders.

Founded by Maia Fichtenholtz Sek & Mads van der Waals
Mission

We don't just research. We build, we teach, and we teach others how to build.

The C.D. Fichtenholtz-Waals Research Institute exists to push the boundaries of quantum computing and artificial intelligence by building real, usable tools while deeply understanding the mathematics, statistics, computer science, and symbolic systems that make them work.

Our focus is turning complex hybrid quantum-classical systems into something interpretable, secure, and genuinely useful, not merely theoretically sound.

We want to become the place where the next generation of builders learns to move fluently between quantum hardware, classical AI architectures, symbolic reasoning, and statistical thinking.

Read our full mission

Core Values
01
Deep Technical Curiosity
We obsess over the mathematics, statistics, symbolic systems, and theoretical foundations that power quantum computing and AI.
02
Builder Mindset
Theory is useless without working tools. We build, break, iterate, and ship.
03
Radical Teaching
We believe the best way to master something is to teach it. We turn complex ideas into something others can genuinely learn and build upon.
04
Interdisciplinary Fluency
We move fluidly between quantum physics, computer science, statistics, symbolic reasoning, and systems architecture.
05
Responsible Craftsmanship
We make things that are not only powerful but also secure, interpretable, and ethically grounded.
Co-Founders
Maia Fichtenholtz Sek
Co-Founder & Co-Director

Builds at the intersection of quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and systems architecture. Work focuses on hybrid quantum-classical learning systems, model interpretability, post-quantum security, and creating practical tools that others can genuinely learn from and extend.

Mads van der Waals
Co-Founder & Co-Director

Experimental physicist and builder exploring quantum hardware, symbolic systems, and the mathematical foundations that power next-generation AI. Leads the Institute's work in quantum hardware, mathematical foundations, and symbolic systems.

Research Focus
Quantum & Hybrid Systems
  • Hybrid quantum-classical learning systems
  • Quantum hardware & experimental physics
  • Quantum error correction
  • Post-quantum cryptography
AI & Interpretability
  • AI systems architecture
  • Model interpretability
  • Secure investigative platforms
  • Open-source tool-building
Mathematics & Symbolic Systems
  • Mathematical foundations of AI
  • Symbolic reasoning systems
  • Statistical theory
  • Pedagogical frameworks
Status
We are in the process of building. Much more is on its way.

The Institute was founded in 2026. We are currently establishing our research agenda, building our first tools, and developing our pedagogical frameworks. This site will grow with us.

Coming Soon
Research Publications
Coming Soon
Open-Source Tools
Coming Soon
Pedagogical Curriculum
Coming Soon
Community & Events

Follow our founders on LinkedIn for updates as the Institute takes shape.