George Mason University is investing $7.7 million to establish Virginia’s first open-architecture quantum computing system, planned for installation in early 2027 and commissioning by late summer of that year. The system, designed and operated by Oxford-based TreQ, will deploy the company’s proprietary Open Architecture Quantum framework for the first time in the U.S. “The opportunity for the Commonwealth of Virginia is significant,” said George Mason University President Gregory Washington, “Experts project that quantum will create a multi-trillion-dollar economy within the decade, and the states that build workforce and infrastructure now will lead in the future.” This partnership aims to expand access to quantum technology and accelerate discovery in fields ranging from public health to national security.
George Mason and TreQ Deploy Virginia’s First Open Architecture Quantum System
George Mason University will receive the first U.S. deployment of an open-architecture quantum computing system, designed and built by Oxford-based TreQ, with delivery scheduled for early 2027. The $7.7 million investment establishes a foundational quantum infrastructure, expected to be fully commissioned by late summer of the following year. This system distinguishes itself through TreQ’s proprietary Open Architecture Quantum (OAQ) framework, a first-of-its-kind implementation within the United States.
The new infrastructure is intended to address critical limitations hindering quantum computing’s progress, specifically a shortage of skilled personnel and the substantial costs associated with specialized hardware. Alongside new curriculum and research initiatives, George Mason anticipates the system will expand access and accelerate discovery in the field.
This open-architecture approach differs from traditional quantum system design, TreQ says. “Open architecture widens the path for innovation, allowing for different quantum processors, software, networking, and other technologies as they mature, rather than a single integration approach,” explained TreQ CEO and Founder Mandy Birch. “That gives established companies, startups, and researchers a place to build, test, and integrate, and move the field forward faster.” The system is designed to facilitate collaboration, attracting industry investment and fostering a quantum supply chain within the region.
College of Science Dean Cody Edwards added, “The open architecture system provides needed infrastructure to work across the full quantum stack, and fuels rapid innovation that no single organization could tackle alone, advancing the region as a magnet for the quantum supply chain.” VIPC President and CEO Joe Benevento stated, “As a top-ranked university, George Mason is already working with regional and industry partners across the state to formalize a broader quantum coalition that is shaping quantum research and workforce development.
The new system will also serve as foundational infrastructure for international companies exploring expansion into Northern Virginia.” QSEC Director Patrick Vora anticipates the system will allow the university to launch new research initiatives and build globally unique workforce training programs, enabling Virginia to “take a quantum leap and drive the future.”
Open architecture widens the path for innovation, allowing for different quantum processors, software, networking, and other technologies as they mature, rather than a single integration approach.
Mandy Birch, CEO and Founder, TreQ
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