The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) believes that advancements in Quantum Information Science (QIS) will be revolutionary for computing, communication, and sensing. The DOE supports research and development in QIS so it can continue to lead the way in new technologies and foster both science and innovation. This work has broad implications for the future of technology.
Quantum research and collaborative scientific initiatives
A coordinated effort by government, national laboratory, academic, and industrial communities is necessary to expedite advancements in quantum science. The coordination of research through collaborations among the various communities of interest ensures that research efforts are aligned with practical applications and that the collective body of knowledge in a number of disciplines is leveraged. Such collaborations have been instrumental in providing a foundation for past advancements in high-performance computing and materials science, and will provide a similar foundation for future quantum discoveries.
Sustained federal investment in quantum research is necessary to continue driving technological advancements and to enhance national competitiveness. An increasing number of international competitors are investing in quantum technologies, making continued federal investment in quantum research essential to sustain U.S. competitiveness globally. By supporting research centers and collaborative programs, the DOE is well-positioned to lead the nation in next-generation technologies.
The strategic value of quantum research extends far beyond science. Quantum research can be used to stimulate economic development, support national security, and increase our understanding of the fundamental laws of physics and chemistry. These additional benefits serve to illustrate why quantum research has become a high-priority area of federal research funding.
Funding for the National Quantum Research Centers by the DOE
As an important example of the DOE’s commitment to advancing quantum research, the DOE recently announced the award of $625 million to further the next phase of the National Quantum Information Science Research Centers. This funding will build upon previous investments in quantum computing, networking, and sensing technologies. In addition, the funding will support the translation of experimental research results into scalable and commercially viable products with national security implications.
The funding will allow the centers to expand their research portfolios, recruit leading researchers, and establish partnerships with universities, industry, and other national laboratories. Research at the centers will be directed toward solving a wide range of technical problems related to hardware, software, quantum materials, and algorithms, and will accelerate the development of practical quantum technologies.
Researchers will have access to state-of-the-art facilities
DOE officials have stated that the funding for this phase will also support the development of the quantum research infrastructure. Each center will have the ability to access advanced high-performance computing systems, new and/or custom experimental equipment, as well as several common facilities and platforms for collaboration among researchers at various organizations; it is anticipated that the funding will improve both the quality and quantity of the research conducted.
Significance to science, industry, and national priorities
These advances are expected to increase the speed of computation, improve the security of data transmission, and provide greater accuracy with measurement, which will greatly assist the advancement of Quantum Information Science. The DOE is creating a stable foundation for a U.S. Quantum Research Ecosystem by funding long-term interdisciplinary projects. This new round of funding provides industry and academia with many more opportunities for collaboration, prototype development, and workforce training.
The initiative also supports the formation of responsible international partnerships and recognizes U.S. leadership in these areas. It encourages collaboration across borders to tackle shared quantum challenges.
While the Quantum Initiative has focused on scientific and technological advancements, it has also emphasized economic and national security priorities. Quantum research has the potential to create employment opportunities, develop a skilled workforce, and enhance U.S. competitiveness in rapidly growing industries. With the DOE re-committing to the Quantum Initiative and an expanded budget, the U.S. will have the opportunity to convert advances in quantum research into tangible scientific, economic, and strategic achievements.
