Visiting scientist Prof Domenica (‘Menica’) Dibenedetto is spending a few months as a researcher in South Africa. We spoke to her briefly about her background and visit to South Africa.
‘As an Assistant Professor at Maastricht University’s Department of Advanced Computing Sciences in the Netherlands, I coordinate the Quantum Computing Research Team. My research focuses on Quantum AI and its applications across disciplines, advancing both fundamental science and real-world impact. With a background in physics and an interdisciplinary approach, I enjoy navigating the “different languages” of quantum computing, AI, computational biology, neuroscience and complex systems. This helps me connect the dots, uncover patterns, and develop innovative solutions to complex problems,’ she says.
‘I am here to establish a connection between Maastricht and Stellenbosch and initiate new projects and research lines. My focus will be on quantum neuromorphic computing and open quantum systems for machine learning, but I am interested in exploring any other research topic such as quantum biology, which I find intriguing.’
Menica continues: ‘During my visit in South Africa, I am supported by the Quantum Delta NL Visitors Programme to foster international collaboration and knowledge exchange. One of my aims during my stay is initiating collaboration with (NITheCS Director) Prof Francesco Petruccione’s group to advance research at the intersection of quantum computing and artificial intelligence, particularly by developing new quantum machine learning methods informed by open quantum systems. This work aims to contribute to both fundamental science and practical applications, including areas such as anomaly detection and quantum neuromorphic computing.’
Professional journey
Asked about her professional journey until now, Menica says: ‘I studied physics in Bari in southern Italy, and worked on applied computational methods. I then moved to Germany for my PhD in computational biology at the Forschungszentrum Jülich. Afterwards I spent a year back in Italy working on experimental physics research. However, I felt drawn back to northern Europe and pursued a postdoc in Maastricht in computational neuroscience within a systems biology group. I later worked as a data scientist in industry, earned an Executive MBA in Brussels, and ultimately became an assistant professor in Quantum AI in Maastricht.’
Menica says that currently she works on ‘various projects in quantum AI, including classical AI for quantum problems and quantum AI for classical problems. For instance, I use quantum machine learning methods to analyse data from physics experiments, such as gravitational wave observations. The research team I coordinate focuses both on developing fundamental methods and exploring applications across multiple disciplines, not just physics.’ Indeed, she says her research is ‘inherently interdisciplinary. Quantum neuromorphic computing, for example, involves computational science, neuroscience, physics, mathematics, and technology.’
There will be time for relaxation during Menica’s visit to South Africa as well: ‘In addition to my research, I am excited to experience the local vibrant culture, including wine, culinary offerings, hiking and cycling opportunities, and art. I look forward to blending my professional journey with the exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage.’