Researchers at the Duke Quantum Center are spearheading an effort to develop a 256-qubit quantum computer, a system that could significantly outperform classical computers in scientific applications. The project, named Quantum Advantage-Class Trapped Ion system (QACTI), is funded by a one-year, $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) National Quantum Virtual Laboratory (NQVL) program. This initiative builds on the successes of the previous Software-Tailored Architectures for Quantum co-design (STAQ) project, which laid the groundwork for this ambitious quantum computing endeavor.
The QACTI project unites a team of collaborators from Duke, the University of Chicago, North Carolina State University, Tufts University, and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Together, they will tackle technical challenges and explore solutions that pave the way for starting the construction of a 256-qubit system in 2026. This quantum computer, based on trapped ion qubits, could revolutionize problem-solving in fields that are currently beyond the reach of classical computers.
Although the initial funding is relatively small and is initially only for one year, the project has the potential to expand into a larger effort, with future funding rounds possibly increasing the budget to $10 million per year. This reflects NSF’s broader vision for NQVL, which aims to accelerate the development of quantum technologies by supporting innovative research and fostering collaboration among a diverse group of institutions.
The NQVL initiative also emphasizes the importance of workforce development in quantum information science, preparing the next generation of researchers and professionals for emerging opportunities in quantum computing, networking, and sensing, further supporting U.S. leadership in quantum technology.
For additional information, you can access a news release posted on the Duke website here.
August 30, 2024