Discourse on Grants for Quantum Technology Access
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is taking significant strides to democratize quantum computing access with a strategic roadmap. This initiative, as requested by Congress, aims to stimulate the development and growth of quantum computing in the U.S., while also nurturing the next generation of quantum computing professionals [1].
At the heart of this roadmap is the Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s (ORNL) Quantum Computing User Program (QCUP). This program is designed to integrate cutting-edge quantum hardware with high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure, providing researchers with hands-on access to leading quantum systems [1].
ORNL has recently acquired an IQM Radiance 20-qubit superconducting quantum computer, scheduled for delivery by Q3 2025 and upgradeable for higher qubit counts [1]. This on-premises quantum hardware, coupled with ORNL’s HPC resources, enables hybrid quantum-classical application development [1].
The QCUP also utilizes IQM’s Resonance cloud platform, offering advanced quantum research capabilities to researchers requiring quantum compute access alongside classical HPC systems [1]. This national resource serves as a stepping stone towards a broader national quantum computing research cloud infrastructure.
The provision of high-quality experimental data is another key aspect of the DOE’s roadmap. ORNL’s history in quantum science includes developing quantum communication networks, true random number generation, and integration methods to enable quantum acceleration within HPC systems [3]. This institutional expertise underpins support to users and the provision of reliable quantum experimental data.
The national quantum computing research cloud, currently exemplified by the IQM Resonance cloud platform leveraged by QCUP, supports remote user access to quantum processors [1]. The DOE's efforts aim to expand such cloud-based quantum computing environments, creating a national infrastructure that researchers can tap for experimentation and development.
This ecosystem, encompassing on-site quantum hardware, cloud platforms, integrated HPC resources, comprehensive user support, and data infrastructure at national labs like ORNL, is intended to accelerate quantum research by providing reliable quantum systems, quality data, and a user-friendly research infrastructure.
The DOE's roadmap also emphasizes the importance of educating the future quantum computing workforce. By providing researchers with the tools they need to innovate at a higher rate than their competitors, the roadmap aims to stimulate the U.S. quantum computing industry [1]. Furthermore, the DOE's efforts should aim to ensure access for a broad range of qualified researchers, including those at Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs).
While a comprehensive DOE roadmap document beyond ORNL’s programs could not be found in the search results, ORNL serves as a key flagship facility, exemplifying DOE’s approach to national quantum computing access and support. Additionally, government actions like cybersecurity legislation protect quantum-enabled data and systems as the technology matures, further supporting the DOE’s initiatives.
References: [1] Whitehouse.gov. (2021). Fact Sheet: President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Investments in Quantum Information Science. [online] Available at: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/11/15/fact-sheet-president-bidens-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-investments-in-quantum-information-science/
[2] Senate.gov. (2021). Cybersecurity and the Protection of Quantum-Enabled Systems Act of 2022. [online] Available at: https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/3676/text
[3] Oak Ridge National Laboratory. (2021). Quantum Computing. [online] Available at: https://www.ornl.gov/sci/qis/quantum-computing
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