Research
& Education

There are over 50 million people worldwide living with dementia today, and this number is expected to reach 82 million by 2030. According to the World Alzheimer Report 2020, the global annual cost of dementia is estimated to be more than US$ 1 trillion and is forecasted to double by 2030. We believe that Europe as a whole has the most up-to-date scientific and clinical knowledge to understand the complexities of neurodegeneration and to develop new technological and therapeutic innovations. Europe has long been a major driver of global innovation but has recently lagged behind in growth sectors and in areas of innovation such as genomics, quantum computing and artificial intelligence.

CLARA will use Europe’s full potential and contribute to change.

CLARA: Pioneering Neurodegenerative Research with AI and Quantum Computing

The Center for Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing in System Brain Research (CLARA) represents a paradigm shift in neurodegenerative disease research. Our innovative approach combines cutting-edge artificial intelligence/machine learning, quantum computing, and high-performance computing to tackle the complex challenges of brain disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease.

Our Unique Research Approach

CLARA's research strategy is built on three interconnected pillars:

1. Quantum-Accelerated Protein Dynamics: We develop advanced foundation models to simulate protein dynamics and aggregation involved in neurodegenerative diseases. By harnessing quantum computing power, we can explore molecular mechanisms at unprecedented scales, opening new avenues for drug discovery.

2.  AI-Driven Clinical Phenomenology: Our team creates generative AI models that integrate diverse data types, from molecular to clinical, to understand the complex progression of Alzheimer's disease over decades. This approach aims to revolutionize patient care through precision medicine tools.

3. Multiscale Brain Modeling: We are building a first-of-its-kind integrated knowledge platform that allows exploration across various spatial and temporal levels of brain organization. This innovative tool will provide crucial insights into the intricate connections between biological factors and clinical symptoms.

By combining these research streams with our state-of-the-art CLARA Testbed infrastructure, we are uniquely positioned to:

• Accelerate the discovery of new intervention targets for neurodegenerative diseases
• Develop more accurate predictive models for disease progression
• Identify personalized therapeutic approaches for patients
• Bridge the gap between molecular processes and clinical outcomes

Our interdisciplinary team of experts from neuroscience, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and clinical research is committed to pushing the boundaries of brain research. Together, we aim to unravel the mysteries of neuronal longevity and vitality, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases.