US Senators Dick Durbin and Steve Daines have introduced bipartisan legislation to advance quantum research and development at the Department of Energy (DOE). The DOE Quantum Leadership Act would authorize over $2.5 billion in funding over five years, significantly more than the $625 million allocated under the National Quantum Initiative Act of 2018. This investment aims to maintain US leadership in quantum technologies, including computing, security, and connectivity.
The legislation would expand research initiatives at DOE facilities such as Fermilab and Argonne National Labs in Illinois, which is poised to become a global hub for quantum technology innovation. Supporters of the bill include David Awschalom, Director of the Chicago Quantum Exchange, and Jason Yager, Executive Director of the Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance.
Companies endorsing the legislation include IBM, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, D-Wave Systems, and PsiQuantum, which has been announced as the first anchor tenant at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park in Chicago. The park is set to receive a $500 million investment from the state of Illinois to attract major companies and startups in quantum computing.
Advancing Quantum Research: The DOE Quantum Leadership Act
The United States is poised to take a significant leap forward in quantum research with the introduction of the Department of Energy (DOE) Quantum Leadership Act. This bipartisan legislation, introduced by Senators Dick Durbin and Steve Daines, aims to authorize more than $2.5 billion in funding over the next five years for quantum research conducted at DOE. This investment is crucial in maintaining America’s leadership in quantum technology, which has the potential to revolutionize multiple industries and strengthen national security.
The DOE Quantum Leadership Act builds upon the foundational work of DOE’s five National Research Centers, including Illinois’ Fermilab and Argonne National Labs. These centers have been pioneers in research into quantum technologies, ensuring that the United States leads the world in computing, security, and connectivity. The legislation would provide DOE with the authority to expand its current quantum R&D initiatives, enabling the department to supercharge research, development, and commercialization of quantum technologies.
The importance of this legislation cannot be overstated. As David Awschalom, the Liew Family Professor of Molecular Engineering and Physics at the University of Chicago and the Director of the Chicago Quantum Exchange, notes, “Quantum technologies will revolutionize multiple industries, impacting our everyday lives and strengthening our economic and national security — but only if we reduce barriers to commercialization.” The DOE Quantum Leadership Act addresses this need by directing DOE to study and address quantum supply chain challenges and reduce barriers to commercialization.
Addressing the Challenges of Quantum Supply Chain
One of the significant hurdles in the development of quantum technologies is the lack of a robust supply chain. The DOE Quantum Leadership Act recognizes this challenge and directs DOE to study and address quantum supply chain challenges. This is critical in ensuring that the United States remains a global leader in quantum technologies.
The legislation also emphasizes the need for an inclusive and well-prepared quantum workforce that is large enough to meet fast-growing demand. As Jason Yager, Executive Director of the Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance, notes, “To realize quantum’s full potential, we need… an inclusive and well-prepared quantum workforce that is large enough to meet fast-growing demand.” The DOE Quantum Leadership Act addresses this need by establishing new programs to support the workforce demands of the growing quantum R&D and commercial ecosystems.
Enhancing Interagency and Industry Coordination
The development of quantum technologies requires coordination among government agencies, industry sectors, and other members of the ecosystem. The DOE Quantum Leadership Act recognizes this need and directs DOE to increase interagency and industry coordination. This is critical in ensuring that the United States remains a global leader in quantum technologies.
Supporting the Growing Quantum Ecosystem
The DOE Quantum Leadership Act has received widespread support from various stakeholders, including the Energy Sciences Coalition, Chicago Quantum Exchange, the Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance, the Quantum Industry Coalition, and several universities and companies. This legislation is crucial at this pivotal moment in the global quantum race as quantum technology approaches true end-use applications.
In conclusion, the DOE Quantum Leadership Act is a critical step forward in advancing quantum research in the United States. The legislation addresses the challenges of quantum supply chain, enhances interagency and industry coordination, and supports the growing quantum ecosystem. As Senator Durbin notes, “It is essential to reauthorize the NQI to maintain America’s leadership in quantum technology.” The passage of this legislation would be a significant milestone in ensuring that the United States remains at the forefront of quantum research and development.
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