The Australian National University (ANU) has taken a significant step towards advancing quantum computing research with its recent collaboration with Fujitsu, a leading Japanese technology company. This partnership aims to establish a centre for quantum research and develop an onsite quantum computer at ANU.
According to Professor Lachlan Blackhall, ANU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), this collaboration will build on the university’s strengths in quantum optical physics and quantum algorithms, fostering the growth of a talented pool of quantum computing professionals. As part of the agreement, Fujitsu will provide ANU researchers with access to its quantum systems and simulators in Japan, including its planned 256-qubit and 1,000-qubit superconducting quantum computer being developed with RIKEN, Japan’s largest comprehensive research institution.
This partnership has the potential to lead to breakthroughs in fields such as cryptography, material science, and quantum simulations, said Associate Professor James Sullivan, who led the Research School of Physics’ involvement in the collaboration.
Collaboration in Quantum Computing: A New Era for Research and Education
The Australian National University (ANU) has taken a significant step forward in its pursuit of advancing quantum computing research and education by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Fujitsu, a leading technology company. This partnership aims to establish a centre for quantum research at ANU, with the ambitious goal of building an onsite quantum computer.
The collaboration will provide ANU researchers and academics with access to Fujitsu’s cutting-edge quantum systems and simulators in Japan, including its planned 256-qubit and 1,000-qubit superconducting quantum computers. This will enable them to conduct research and development in various areas, such as materials science, optical systems, and Fujitsu’s Quantum-inspired Digital Annealer. The latter is a digital circuit design inspired by quantum phenomena, which focuses on rapidly solving complex combinatorial optimization problems without the added complications and costs typically associated with quantum computing methods.
In return, ANU will develop teaching and training modules based on access to Fujitsu’s quantum technologies, further informing its approach to research into quantum computing. This could contribute to the development of programs such as the Master of Science in Quantum Technology, which is already offered by the university. The partnership aligns with current research conducted in the Department of Quantum Science and Technology, particularly in the Quantum Optics group and Solid State Spectroscopy Group.
Advancing Research in Quantum Computing
The collaboration between ANU and Fujitsu has the potential to significantly advance research in quantum computing, a field that holds great promise for revolutionizing various areas of science and technology. The development of an onsite quantum computer at ANU would support advanced research in fields such as cryptography, material science, and quantum simulations. This could lead to breakthroughs in our understanding of complex systems and the development of new technologies with far-reaching applications.
Associate Professor James Sullivan, who led the Research School of Physics’ involvement in the Memorandum of Understanding, emphasized the significance of this partnership. “It will bring a lot of interesting opportunities – it will be a point from which we can build broader collaborations with industry, government, defence and more.” He added that it would “jump-start” ANU’s efforts to establish itself as a serious player in Australia, if not the world.
Fostering Talent in Quantum Computing
The partnership between ANU and Fujitsu also aims to foster the growth of a talented pool of quantum computing professionals. By providing access to cutting-edge technologies and expertise, this collaboration will enable researchers and students at ANU to develop their skills and knowledge in this rapidly evolving field. This is critical for Australia’s future competitiveness in science and technology, as well as its ability to address complex challenges that require innovative solutions.
Professor Lachlan Blackhall, ANU Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), highlighted the importance of this aspect of the partnership. “ANU is excited to see this collaboration with Fujitsu, which promises to build on the University’s strengths in quantum optical physics and quantum algorithms.” He added that it would help to foster the growth of a talented pool of quantum computing professionals.
Expanding Opportunities for Collaboration
The Memorandum of Understanding between ANU and Fujitsu has the potential to expand opportunities for collaboration beyond the initial scope of the partnership. There is scope to broaden the collaboration to other areas within the Research School of Physics and across the university, enabling researchers from diverse backgrounds to contribute their expertise to advancing quantum computing research and education.
Interested parties are encouraged to contact Associate Professor James Sullivan to explore possibilities for expanding this collaboration further. This could lead to new breakthroughs and innovations that would have far-reaching impacts on various areas of science and technology.
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