Finnish quantum computing firm IQM is integrating its 20-qubit IQM Radiance quantum computer into Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in Tennessee, USA.
This marks ORNL’s first incorporation of an on-premises quantum computer directly into its HPC ecosystem to accelerate the development of hybrid quantum-classical applications.
IQM’s quantum computer leverages superconducting technology that lets circuits manipulate quantum information using minimal energy loss, resulting in qubits that can be controlled quickly and efficiently. To be delivered by Q3, it is upgradeable to higher qubit counts in the future.
“IQM’s on-premises installation will allow our researchers hands-on access to cutting-edge quantum computing technology as we explore how quantum computers will be integrated with HPC systems to tackle early quantum advantage,” said Travis Humble, Advisor to Quantum Computing User Program and Director of Quantum Science Center at ORNL.
“Our long-term goal is to collaborate closely with ORNL’s researchers in quantum application areas like fluid dynamics, particle physics and electronic structure simulations,” said Jan Goetz, Co-founder and Co-CEO of IQM.
It is likely that this collaboration will not only benefit the United States and Europe but also attract heightened attention from Asia’s rapidly advancing quantum research communities, particularly in Singapore, Japan, China, and South Korea.
The move could inspire broader cross-continental collaborations and further investments in quantum technologies across the Asia-Pacific, as governments and industries race to develop their own quantum capabilities to maintain competitiveness in the global digital economy.
Entelechy Asia 