Researchers at Duke University’s Pratt School of Engineering are embarking on an ambitious project to build a massive 256-qubit quantum computer, potentially the most powerful in the world. The effort is backed by a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation’s National Quantum Virtual Laboratory program. The collaboration could demonstrate a quantum system that outperforms classical computers for various scientific applications if successful.
The project, called Quantum Advantage-Class Trapped Ion System (QACTI), builds on previous work conducted through the Software-Tailored Architectures for Quantum co-design (STAQ) project and the University of Chicago’s Enabling Practical-scale Quantum Computing (EPiQC) Expedition. Key individuals involved include Ken Brown, leader of the QACTI program, and Denise Caldwell, acting NSF Assistant Director for Mathematical and Physical Sciences. The project also involves collaborations with the University of Chicago, North Carolina State University, Tufts University, and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
Building the Future of Quantum Computing: A 256-Qubit Ambition
The Duke-led team has embarked on an ambitious project to engineer the most powerful quantum computer in the world. With a one-year, $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) National Quantum Virtual Laboratory (NQVL) program, the collaboration aims to demonstrate a quantum system that can outperform classical computers for various scientific applications.
The NQVL program represents a new approach by NSF to facilitate the complex process of translating new scientific ideas into fully developed technologies that benefit society. The program is funding five pioneering projects, including the Duke-led effort, designed to enable faster discovery and development of use-inspired quantum technologies. These grants have supported researchers working to build quantum computers using qubits made from trapped ions, which can potentially solve complex problems that classical computers cannot.
The Quantum Advantage-Class Trapped Ion system (QACTI) project builds on foundations laid through the Software-Tailored Architectures for Quantum co-design (STAQ) project. Originally funded with $15 million by NSF in 2018, STAQ was recently renewed in 2024 with an additional $17 million in funding through 2029. The project also draws on work conducted through the University of Chicago’s Enabling Practical-scale Quantum Computing (EPiQC) Expedition, of which Duke is a part.
Qubits: The Building Blocks of Quantum Computers
Qubits are the fundamental units of quantum computers, analogous to single bits in classical computers but with much more dexterity and power. Because qubits can exist as both 1 and 0 simultaneously, they have the potential to solve complex problems that classical computers cannot. The STAQ program team has already tested many ion trap designs and control systems, achieving control of a chain 23 qubits long with plans to reach more than 50 soon.
The new funding will allow researchers to work with the broader community to identify technical challenges and potential solutions, to start construction of a 256-qubit machine in 2026. Joining Duke in this quest are original STAQ collaborators from the University of Chicago, North Carolina State University, and Tufts University.
The National Quantum Virtual Laboratory: A Federated Resource
The NQVL project includes new collaborations with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University to strengthen expertise on control systems and help shape workforce development plans. While the NQVL grant may seem small compared to previous quantum-related grants, it holds the potential to grow into a much larger effort than STAQ.
After the first phase is complete, participants have the opportunity to proceed to future funding rounds focused on design and implementation, with a potential increase in budget up to $10 million per year. As these five projects mature alongside another five expected to be announced later this year, those chosen for additional funding will grow together and serve as a federated resource, bringing together assets that will enable a diversity of quantum-focused research and development.
Accelerating Quantum Innovation
NQVL will broaden access to specialized research infrastructure by functioning as a geographically distributed national resource. The program will grow and adapt to seize emerging opportunities and accelerate the translation of fundamental science and engineering into practical applications codesigned by a broad and diverse user community that spans computing, networking, and sensing.
The NSF’s investment in NQVL aims to accelerate the translation of technological innovations into the market and society, as well as train the American workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. Through NQVL, NSF will invest in resources that will allow for research and experimentation of novel quantum technologies, opening new opportunities across a range of disciplines from new material discovery to healthcare interventions, all while providing critical workforce development opportunities to fill the quantum jobs anticipated over the next decade.
The Future of Quantum Computing
The Duke-led team’s ambitious project marks an important step towards building the future of quantum computing. With the potential to grow into a much larger effort than STAQ, NQVL holds the key to unlocking the full potential of quantum technologies and driving innovation in the United States. As researchers continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with qubits, the possibilities for scientific discovery and technological advancement seem endless.
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