Selected national quantum computing labs and institutes

19/01/24·20 min read

The following is a collection of notable research institutes, national labs, and other related entities that have a significant role in the global quantum computing community. This is not intended as a concise survey, but as a usefu reference to the major players one will come across, and some insights into their work and the most significant output that they are responsible for.

ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS)

Summary

  • Australian research center focusing on quantum technology development and applications across multiple universities.
  • https://equs.org/

Details

The ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS) is a leading Australian research center focused on quantum science and technology. Established in 2011 and funded by the Australian Research Council, EQUS brings together researchers from multiple Australian universities to advance the field of quantum engineering.

EQUS's primary goal is to develop quantum machines that harness quantum physics for practical applications. The center's research is organized around three main programs: Designer Quantum Materials, Quantum-Enabled Diagnostics and Imaging, and Quantum Engines and Instruments. These programs span a wide range of quantum technologies, including quantum sensing, quantum control, and quantum-enabled diagnostic tools.

Key achievements of EQUS include advancements in quantum error correction, improvements in quantum sensing techniques, and the development of novel quantum materials. The center has contributed significantly to pushing the boundaries of quantum science and translating theoretical concepts into real-world technologies.

EQUS places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and training the next generation of quantum engineers. It also engages with industry partners to accelerate the development and adoption of quantum technologies, playing a crucial role in positioning Australia as a leader in the global quantum landscape.

Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) - Quantum Information and Quantum Technology Innovation Research Institute

Summary

  • Leading Chinese research institute for quantum information science and technology development.
  • http://english.cas.cn/

Details

The Quantum Information and Quantum Technology Innovation Research Institute, part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), is a leading center for quantum research in China. Established as part of China's strategic push in quantum technologies, the institute focuses on advancing quantum information science and its practical applications.

Key research areas include quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum metrology. The institute is particularly known for its work on quantum satellites, having developed the world's first quantum communication satellite, Micius, launched in 2016. This satellite has been used to demonstrate long-distance quantum key distribution and set records for quantum entanglement distance.

In quantum computing, the institute has made significant strides in both superconducting and photonic quantum systems. Researchers have developed multi-qubit quantum processors and are working towards achieving quantum supremacy. The institute also places strong emphasis on quantum materials research and quantum sensing technologies.

The institute plays a crucial role in China's national quantum strategy, collaborating with other CAS research centers, universities, and industry partners. While some aspects of its research may not be publicly disclosed due to strategic importance, the institute's work has positioned China as a global leader in quantum technologies, particularly in the field of quantum communication.

Delft University of Technology - QuTech

Summary

  • Dutch research center collaborating with TNO, focusing on quantum computing and quantum internet technologies.
  • https://qutech.nl/

Details

QuTech is a world-leading research institute in quantum technology, established in 2014 as a collaboration between Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) and the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO). Located in Delft, Netherlands, QuTech has quickly become one of the most prominent quantum research centers globally.

The institute's primary mission is to develop scalable prototypes of quantum computers and quantum internet. QuTech's research spans several key areas, including quantum computing, quantum internet, topological quantum computing, and quantum sensing. They work on multiple qubit platforms, including superconducting qubits and spin qubits in semiconductors.

Notable achievements include significant breakthroughs in quantum error correction, demonstrations of long-distance entanglement, and the development of Quantum Inspire, one of Europe's first publicly accessible quantum computing platforms. QuTech is also at the forefront of developing quantum network technologies, working towards creating a quantum internet connecting multiple cities in the Netherlands.

QuTech benefits from a unique ecosystem that combines academic research with industry partnerships, collaborating with major tech companies and other research institutions globally. This approach accelerates the transition from fundamental research to practical applications, positioning the Netherlands as a key player in the global quantum landscape.

Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI)

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The Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) is a leading government-funded research institute in South Korea, headquartered in Daejeon. While ETRI covers a broad range of ICT research, it has a significant focus on quantum technologies as part of its future-oriented research initiatives.

ETRI's quantum research primarily concentrates on quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and quantum communications. Key areas include the development of superconducting qubits, quantum algorithms, quantum key distribution (QKD) systems, and quantum random number generators. The institute is particularly known for its advancements in practical quantum cryptography systems.

Notable achievements include the development of a quantum random number chip, significant progress in satellite-based quantum key distribution, and the creation of a quantum computing simulator. ETRI has also been instrumental in establishing quantum communication networks in South Korea, demonstrating real-world applications of quantum technologies.

As a government research institute, ETRI plays a crucial role in South Korea's national quantum strategy, collaborating with universities, industry partners, and international research organizations. Through its work, ETRI contributes significantly to positioning South Korea as a key player in the global quantum technology landscape.

Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics IAF

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The Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics IAF, located in Freiburg, Germany, is a leading research institution specializing in III-V compound semiconductors and their applications. While not exclusively focused on quantum technologies, IAF has significant involvement in quantum research and development.

IAF's quantum-related work centers on the development of quantum sensing technologies and solid-state quantum systems. Key areas include diamond-based quantum sensors, quantum cascade lasers, and high-frequency electronics for quantum control. The institute is particularly known for its expertise in growing high-quality diamond materials for quantum applications and developing advanced semiconductor devices.

Notable achievements include the creation of highly sensitive quantum magnetometers, advancements in single-photon sources and detectors, and the development of terahertz quantum cascade lasers. IAF's work bridges fundamental quantum science with practical applications, particularly in areas such as medical imaging, secure communication, and precise navigation.

As part of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, IAF emphasizes translating research into industrial applications. It collaborates extensively with industry partners and other research institutions, contributing to Germany's and Europe's quantum technology initiatives. Through its combination of fundamental research and application-oriented development, IAF plays a crucial role in advancing quantum technologies towards real-world use.

Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) - University of Waterloo

Summary

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The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) is a world-leading research center dedicated to the development of quantum information science and technology. Founded in 2002 and located at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada, IQC has established itself as a premier institution in the quantum field.

IQC's research spans a broad spectrum of quantum information science, including quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing. Key focus areas include superconducting and spin qubits, quantum cryptography, quantum error correction, and quantum algorithms. The institute is known for its interdisciplinary approach, bringing together physicists, mathematicians, computer scientists, and engineers.

Notable achievements of IQC include pioneering work in quantum cryptography, advancements in quantum computing architectures, and significant contributions to quantum error correction theories. The institute also houses state-of-the-art facilities, including cleanrooms for nanofabrication and laboratories for quantum optics and superconducting devices.

Beyond research, IQC plays a crucial role in education and outreach. It offers graduate programs in quantum information, hosts international conferences, and runs various programs to engage the public and young students in quantum science. Through its comprehensive approach to research, education, and collaboration, IQC continues to be at the forefront of the global quantum revolution.

Joint Quantum Institute (JQI)

Summary

  • Research partnership between the University of Maryland and NIST, focusing on quantum science and technology.
  • https://jqi.umd.edu/

Details

The Joint Quantum Institute (JQI) is a research partnership between the University of Maryland (UMD) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), with additional support from the Laboratory for Physical Sciences. Established in 2006, JQI is dedicated to the broad field of quantum science and technology.

JQI's research spans a wide range of quantum physics topics, including quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing, and fundamental quantum phenomena. The institute is particularly known for its work on trapped ions, ultracold atoms, quantum optics, and topological quantum matter.

Key achievements of JQI include pioneering experiments in quantum simulation using trapped ions and neutral atoms, advancements in quantum communication protocols, and significant contributions to our understanding of many-body quantum systems. The institute also plays a crucial role in developing new quantum technologies, such as single-photon sources and quantum memories.

JQI is not only a research powerhouse but also a major hub for education and training in quantum science. It offers extensive programs for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, helping to cultivate the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers. Through its collaborative structure, bringing together academia and government research, JQI serves as a model for interdisciplinary quantum research and helps drive the national quantum initiative forward.

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory - Advanced Quantum Testbed

Summary

  • US Department of Energy facility for advancing superconducting quantum computing technologies.
  • https://www.aqt.lbl.gov/

Details

The Advanced Quantum Testbed (AQT) is a state-of-the-art research facility at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) dedicated to advancing quantum computing technologies. Established in 2018, AQT focuses on superconducting quantum processors and the development of full-stack quantum computing systems.

AQT's primary mission is to provide an open, collaborative platform for researchers to explore quantum computing hardware and software. It offers users from academia, industry, and other national laboratories access to cutting-edge superconducting quantum processors, allowing them to run experiments, test quantum algorithms, and develop quantum control techniques.

Key research areas at AQT include quantum error correction, quantum algorithm implementation, and the development of quantum control systems. The testbed is particularly known for its work on noise characterization and mitigation in superconducting qubits, as well as its efforts to improve the scalability and reliability of quantum processors.

AQT plays a crucial role in the U.S. Department of Energy's quantum information science initiatives, contributing to the national goal of developing practical quantum computing technologies. Through its open access model and collaboration with diverse partners, AQT accelerates innovation in quantum computing and helps bridge the gap between fundamental research and real-world applications.

Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics

Summary

  • German research institute specializing in quantum optics and its applications in computing and communication.
  • https://www.mpq.mpg.de/en

Details

The Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics, located in Garching near Munich, Germany, is a world-leading research institution in the field of quantum optics and quantum information. Founded in 1981, MPQ has been at the forefront of groundbreaking discoveries in quantum physics and its applications.

MPQ's research focuses on the interaction between light and matter at the quantum level. Key areas include quantum computing and simulation, ultrafast laser physics, quantum many-body systems, and precision measurements using quantum techniques. The institute is known for its pioneering work in areas such as quantum gas microscopes, optical atomic clocks, and quantum simulation with ultracold atoms.

Notable achievements of MPQ include the development of the frequency comb technique, for which Theodor W. Hänsch was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2005. The institute has also made significant contributions to quantum computing, including the realization of quantum gates between single atoms and the development of quantum memories.

MPQ collaborates closely with universities and research institutions worldwide and plays a crucial role in training the next generation of quantum scientists. Its state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary approach continue to drive advancements in quantum science and technology, positioning it as a key player in the global quantum research landscape.

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) - Physical Measurement Laboratory

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The Physical Measurement Laboratory (PML) at NIST plays a crucial role in quantum science and technology research, particularly in quantum information science and precision measurement. Their work spans quantum computing, quantum sensing and metrology, quantum communications, and fundamental quantum physics.

Key research areas include the development of quantum computing platforms, quantum error correction, atomic clocks and quantum-based time standards, quantum key distribution, and the study of quantum materials. NIST's PML is renowned for its Ion Storage Group's work on trapped-ion quantum computing and its world-leading atomic clocks, including the NIST-F1 and NIST-F2 Cesium Fountains.

The lab collaborates extensively with academic and industry partners, notably through the Joint Quantum Institute and the Joint Center for Quantum Information and Computer Science, both in partnership with the University of Maryland. PML's advanced facilities support cutting-edge quantum experiments and nanofabrication of quantum devices.

A crucial aspect of NIST's mission is the development of measurement standards based on quantum phenomena and the transfer of quantum technologies to practical applications. This work is essential for setting standards in the emerging field of quantum technologies, ensuring reliability and comparability as these technologies move from research to commercial applications.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory - Quantum Information Science

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Oak Ridge National Laboratory's Quantum Information Science program leverages the lab's multidisciplinary expertise and world-class facilities to advance quantum technologies. Key research areas include quantum computing hardware, quantum materials, quantum sensing, and quantum algorithms and simulations.

ORNL's QIS program focuses on developing superconducting and trapped-ion qubits, investigating materials for quantum information systems, and advancing quantum algorithms for chemistry, materials science, and nuclear physics. The lab also leads the Quantum Science Center, a DOE National Quantum Information Science Research Center.

Notable resources include the Summit supercomputer for quantum simulations, the Spallation Neutron Source for studying quantum materials, and advanced nanofabrication facilities. ORNL's unique capabilities, particularly its neutron sources and supercomputers, provide distinctive advantages for quantum research.

The lab collaborates extensively with universities, industry partners, and other national laboratories as part of the National Quantum Initiative. ORNL's comprehensive approach, covering fundamental research to potential applications, significantly contributes to maintaining U.S. competitiveness in quantum technologies, with potential impacts on national security, scientific discovery, and economic development.

Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre

Summary

  • Australian high-performance computing facility providing supercomputing resources to support scientificc research in radio astronomy, space science, and quantum computing.
  • https://pawsey.org.au

Details

Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre, located in Perth, Western Australia, is one of Australia's two Tier-1 High Performance Computing (HPC) facilities. Established in 2000, it provides world-class supercomputing resources and expertise to researchers across Australia. Pawsey's supercomputing infrastructure includes Setonix, one of the most powerful supercomputers in the Southern Hemisphere. This system, based on HPE Cray EX architecture, significantly enhances Australia's computing capabilities, supporting research in fields such as radio astronomy, space science, bioinformatics, and quantum computing.

In the quantum computing domain, Pawsey collaborates with various research institutions and industry partners to advance quantum technologies. The centre provides classical computing resources essential for quantum simulations and algorithm development, complementing experimental quantum computing efforts across Australia.

Pawsey plays a crucial role in supporting major scientific projects, including the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) radio telescope. The centre also focuses on developing and applying machine learning and AI techniques to enhance data processing and analysis capabilities. Through its cutting-edge infrastructure and expertise, Pawsey contributes significantly to Australia's research competitiveness and innovation in high-performance computing and data-intensive science.

Poznan Supercomputing and Networking Center (PSNC) in Poland

Summary

  • PSNC is a major research and development center in Poland, focusing on high-performance computing, networking, and data storage technologies.
  • https://www.psnc.pl

Details

The Poznan Supercomputing and Networking Center (PSNC) is a leading research and development center in Poland, affiliated with the Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences. Established in 1993, PSNC has become a key player in advanced computing, networking, and data storage technologies in Europe.

PSNC's main areas of focus include high-performance computing (HPC), cloud computing, and networking. The center operates several supercomputers, including "Eagle," one of the most powerful in Poland. It also manages PIONIER, the Polish Optical Internet Network, connecting research and education institutions across the country.

In addition to its core competencies, PSNC engages in quantum computing research and development, collaborating on quantum networking projects. The center also conducts research in areas such as artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies.

PSNC plays a crucial role in Poland's digital research infrastructure and contributes significantly to European research and innovation in ICT. It actively participates in numerous European research projects and collaborates with universities, research institutions, and industry partners across Europe. Through its multidisciplinary approach and advanced facilities, PSNC contributes to Poland's digital transformation and strengthens its position in the European research area.

Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics

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The Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics is an independent research center located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 1999, it has quickly become one of the world's leading centers for theoretical physics research.

The institute's research focuses on several key areas of theoretical physics, including quantum information, quantum fields and strings, quantum gravity, particle physics, cosmology, and condensed matter physics. In the realm of quantum information, Perimeter researchers have made significant contributions to quantum computing algorithms, quantum cryptography, and fundamental aspects of quantum theory.

Perimeter is known for its interdisciplinary approach, encouraging collaboration across different areas of theoretical physics. It attracts leading physicists from around the world through its visitor program and hosts the Perimeter Scholars International (PSI), a renowned one-year master's program in theoretical physics.

The institute places a strong emphasis on outreach and public engagement, hosting public lectures, educational programs for students and teachers, and the annual Quantum to Cosmos festival. Through its unique funding model, which combines public and private support, Perimeter maintains scientific independence and focuses on high-risk, potentially transformative research in theoretical physics.

RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science

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The RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science (CEMS) is a flagship research center within RIKEN, Japan's largest comprehensive research institution. Established in 2013, CEMS is at the forefront of research in quantum science, nanoscale technology, and novel materials.

CEMS conducts cutting-edge research in three main areas: Quantum Information Electronics, Supramolecular Functional Systems, and Strong Correlation Physics. In quantum computing, the center is developing various qubit platforms, including superconducting qubits and spin qubits, and working on quantum error correction and fault-tolerant quantum computing.

Notable achievements include demonstrating high-fidelity quantum operations in silicon quantum dots, advances in molecular spintronics and organic semiconductors, and discoveries in topological materials and their quantum properties. CEMS is known for its holistic approach to studying emergent phenomena in matter, combining expertise in physics, chemistry, and materials science.

The center actively collaborates with leading research institutions worldwide and plays a crucial role in Japan's quantum technology strategy. CEMS's interdisciplinary environment and state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced nanofabrication and measurement systems, position it as a key player in the global quantum research landscape.

Sandia National Laboratories - Quantum Information Sciences

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Sandia National Laboratories' Quantum Information Sciences (QIS) program is a key part of the United States' efforts in quantum technology development. The program focuses on a wide range of quantum technologies, including quantum computing, quantum sensing, and quantum communications.

A flagship initiative of Sandia's QIS program is QSCOUT (Quantum Scientific Computing Open User Testbed), which provides researchers nationwide access to quantum computing hardware based on trapped-ion technology. This platform is known for its high-fidelity qubit operations and is instrumental in advancing quantum computing research.

Sandia's quantum research also encompasses quantum hardware development, with work on various qubit platforms including trapped-ions, superconducting qubits, and silicon-based qubits. The lab is particularly noted for its advancements in quantum control systems and quantum error correction.

As part of the National Quantum Initiative, Sandia collaborates extensively with other national laboratories, universities, and industry partners. The lab's work spans from fundamental research to technology demonstration, with a strong emphasis on developing scalable and robust quantum systems for national security applications.

Singapore Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT)

Summary

  • Singaporean national research center for quantum technologies, focusing on computing, cryptography, and sensing.
  • https://www.quantumlah.org/

Details

The Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT) is a leading research center dedicated to quantum science and technology, established in 2007. It's a national Research Centre of Excellence in Singapore, hosted by the National University of Singapore (NUS) and supported by the National Research Foundation.

CQT conducts cutting-edge research across a broad spectrum of quantum technologies, including quantum computing, quantum cryptography, quantum metrology, and quantum simulation. The center is known for its work in quantum communication, particularly in quantum key distribution and the development of quantum satellites.

Notable achievements include the launch of the CubeSat named SpooQy-1 in 2019, which demonstrated quantum entanglement in space, and significant contributions to quantum random number generation and atomic clock technology. CQT also plays a crucial role in Singapore's quantum ecosystem, contributing to the country's National Quantum Strategy.

The center emphasizes both fundamental research and practical applications, collaborating with industry partners to translate research into commercial products. CQT also focuses on education and outreach, offering PhD programs and various initiatives to engage the public and students in quantum science, helping to build Singapore's quantum-ready workforce.

UNSW Sydney - Centre for Quantum Computation & Communication Technology (CQC2T)

Summary

  • An Australian research center pioneering silicon quantum computing technology and developing quantum communication systems.
  • https://www.cqc2t.org/

Details

The CQC2T, based at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, is a world-leading research center in quantum computing and quantum communication. Established in 2000, it has become one of the most prominent quantum research institutions globally, known particularly for its pioneering work in silicon quantum computing.

Led by Scientia Professor Michelle Simmons, CQC2T is renowned for its work on silicon-based qubits. The center has made groundbreaking advances in creating and controlling qubits using single atoms of phosphorus precisely placed in a silicon chip. This approach leverages existing semiconductor manufacturing techniques, potentially offering a more scalable path to quantum computers.

Key achievements include demonstrating the longest coherence time for a single qubit in silicon, creating the first two-qubit gate in silicon using atom qubits, and developing techniques for single-shot readout of electron spins in silicon. The center's work spans from fundamental research to technology demonstration, with a strong emphasis on developing scalable and robust quantum systems.

CQC2T collaborates with various Australian universities and has partnerships with international research institutions and industry leaders. In 2017, the center spun off a company, Silicon Quantum Computing (SQC), to commercialize its research. CQC2T plays a crucial role in Australia's quantum strategy, contributing significantly to the country's position as a leader in quantum technology.