I'm happy to start this thread by introducing myself.

My name is Ali Abbassi, and I’m a first-year PhD student working on quantum computing for combinatorial optimization. My research is part of a joint project between the University of Technology of Troyes and Orange Innovation. I'm particularly interested in how hybrid quantum-classical algorithms can be applied to real-world network optimization problems.

I hold a Bachelor's degree in mathematics and a Master’s degree from the University of South Brittany, along with part-time studies in fundamental mathematics at the University of Besançon. My work spans both theoretical and practical aspects of quantum computing — especially in exploring the current limits of commercially available quantum technologies, including but not limited to quantum annealers like D-Wave.

Beyond the technical side, I have a strong interest in group theory and how it connects to foundational questions in quantum information and operations research. Defining such problems rigorously is both exciting and deeply challenging — which is precisely what makes research so rewarding.

Looking forward to learning more about your backgrounds and projects. Feel free to reach out if our interests overlap.

Best,
Ali