Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), the largest U.S. Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, has announced a strategic collaboration with IQM Quantum Computers, integrating the IQM Resonance quantum cloud service into ORNL’s Quantum Computing User Program (QCUP). This collaboration will offer researchers and academic institutions access to IQM’s state-of-the-art quantum processing units (QPUs), providing a significant boost to research in computational science and quantum technologies.
The QCUP program, which supports over 400 users worldwide, aims to foster innovation by facilitating access to cutting-edge quantum computing systems. Through this initiative, researchers, developers, and scientists will gain access to IQM’s high-fidelity quantum systems, including the IQM Crystal QPU and IQM Star QPU. These QPUs are designed to advance the application of quantum computing across a wide range of research domains, including materials science, pharmaceuticals, cryptography, and beyond.
Expanding Quantum Access for a Global Research Community
The addition of IQM Resonance to QCUP enhances ORNL’s already impressive quantum research capabilities. The collaboration is expected to accelerate the growth of quantum information science and offer new opportunities for scientific exploration. By incorporating these quantum technologies into their research programs, ORNL aims to push the boundaries of computational power, enabling researchers to tackle increasingly complex problems.
This partnership marks a major milestone in our continuous journey to drive advancements in quantum computing,” stated Mikko Välimäki, Co-CEO of IQM Quantum Computers. “By granting ORNL direct access to our quantum systems, we are not only helping them tackle some of the most pressing global challenges, but also strengthening IQM’s position within the swiftly expanding U.S. quantum ecosystem.”
Unlocking New Research Opportunities with High-Connectivity
IQM’s quantum processors are designed for one of the highest levels of connectivity available in the industry. The IQM Star QPU, with its innovative star topology and central resonator, offers exceptional connectivity and computational power, which significantly improves the execution of quantum algorithms. This advanced architecture promises to facilitate more accurate and efficient quantum simulations, particularly in areas like quantum error correction and quantum cryptography, where high connectivity is critical.
The IQM Crystal QPU, a square-lattice processor, complements the Star QPU by providing high-fidelity performance for a range of computational applications. Together, these QPUs offer ORNL’s researchers access to some of the most advanced quantum systems in the world, allowing them to explore new avenues in quantum computing that were previously inaccessible.
Building a Stronger Quantum Ecosystem
The Quantum Computing User Program at ORNL is dedicated to advancing the development of quantum technologies and providing access to high-performance computing systems for a broad range of users. This initiative aligns with ORNL’s broader mission of accelerating scientific discovery and solving critical global challenges. The addition of IQM Resonance to QCUP is a testament to ORNL’s commitment to supporting the next generation of quantum research and fostering collaboration with industry leaders like IQM.
Travis Humble, Director of the Quantum Science Center at ORNL, stated, “Our Quantum Computing User Program plays a crucial role in advancing quantum research and fostering the discovery of groundbreaking technologies.” By partnering with IQM, we are providing our researchers with access to one of the most advanced quantum computing platforms available, empowering them to explore the potential of quantum science in unprecedented ways.”
A Vision for the Future of Quantum Computing
The collaboration between ORNL and IQM Quantum Computers represents a significant step forward in the evolution of quantum technologies. By integrating IQM Resonance into ORNL’s research program, both institutions are paving the way for long-term advancements in quantum computing and expanding the frontiers of computational research. As quantum technologies continue to evolve, this partnership will play a key role in unlocking new capabilities that can address some of the world’s most complex scientific challenges.
